Donna Johnson

Donna R. Johnson, 75, entered into eternal peace on March 28, 2022 in Des Moines, Iowa. Donna was born on July 25, 1946 in Des Moines, Iowa, daughter of the late Ted and Frances Schaffer. She spent her childhood in Des Moines and graduated from East High School in 1964. Donna worked as a dental assistant for a number of years where she was introduced to her soulmate Jeff Johnson. They were married on December 30, 1967. After Jeff graduated from Veterinary school, he was commissioned as First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, they were stationed at Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio, Texas. After being promoted to Captain, Jeff and Donna transferred to Aviano Air Force Base in Italy. Their experience living in Europe as part of the military was one of their fondest memories. Upon returning to Des Moines they established All City Mobile Pet Clinic, a full-service mobile practice from 1977-84. In 1980, they purchased City South Animal Hospital on Army Post Road in Des Moines where Donna spent 32 years as the bookkeeper and office manager, mostly in charge of Jeff. Donna was an incredible cook, baker, candy maker and loved a glass of wine. She had a huge heart and loved helping those in need. Over the years Donna filled the part of secret Santa, providing presents to numerous needy families. Everyone eagerly anticipated the holidays knowing Donna would be stopping by with her homemade Christmas goodies which she started baking in October. She was an incredible entertainer and host known for her Christmas parties. Donna was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Dr. Jeffry Johnson and her brother Theodore Schaffer Jr. She leaves behind daughters Stacy Taiber (Dan) of Urbandale and Shanna Overholser (Matt) of Austin, Texas. Her granddaughters, Ava Taiber (19), Ella Overholser (16), Mya Taiber (16), and Olivia Overholser (14), were her world. Her siblings include Steven Schaffer of Hot Springs, AR, Kathy Olson (Rob) of Columbia, SC, Connie Sherman (Kelly) of Des Moines and many adoring nieces, nephews and friends. Visitation will be held April 11th from 4-7 pm at the Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, 8201 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, Iowa. A funeral mass will be held April 12th 10:30 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 7075 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines, Iowa followed by a luncheon at St. Francis Parish Hall. Private family entombment will be at Iowa Veterans Cemetery near Van Meter, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wreaths Across America.