Obituary of Donna Jean Dengate

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Donna Jean Dengate (nee McLean) of London ON on September 3, 2023 at the University Hospital in London Ontario at the age of 71, surrounded by family. Donna was born to Donald and Irene McLean in 1952. She grew up with her sisters Linda (Fred) Longstaffe and Barbara McLean on a farm in the Strathroy-Caradoc region. She attended and graduated from the University of Windsor and taught as an elementary school teacher in the London School Board until 1986. She married her beloved husband Wes Dengate in 1984 and became a stepmother to Kathy (Don) Naylor, Tim (Carolyn) Dengate and Rob Dengate. In the years that followed, she also became “Grandma” and “Grandma Sweetheart” respectively to her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Donna was a lifelong believer in Christ and could frequently be found volunteering at her church or planning for the next Bible study. She was an avid gardener who grew new things every summer and would share her harvest every fall with her family; in the winter, she could be found at her sewing machine creating another beloved quilt. She had a practical, honest, and hardworking spirit and could be found “behind the scenes” of any big family event or project. Donna is survived by her husband, her stepchildren and grandchildren, and her sisters. She is sorely missed by her family on earth and has been welcomed with open arms by her family in heaven. The Family would like to extend their appreciation to the staff at the University Hospital Intensive Care Unit who provided exceptional care to Donna. In keeping with Donna’s wishes, a cremation has already taken place and in lieu of a formal funeral service, a memorial gathering will be held September 30th from 2 to 5 PM at West Park Church, 955 Gainsborough Road, London ON where all are invited to come and share their memories of Donna. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to West Park Church Benevolent Fund or to the London Pregnancy & Family Support Centre. www.lonpfsc.com