Donalda K. Sauer

Donalda K. Sauer, 71, of Columbus, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2026, at her home.

Donalda was born on August 27, 1954, the daughter of Ludden “Fritz” and Esther (Kuehl) Benson in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. She was the salutatorian of the Columbus High School class of 1973. On September 17, 1983, she was married to Allen E. Sauer in Portage, Wisconsin.

Donalda dedicated many years of her professional life as the manager of the estimating and billing department at Royle Printing (Sun Prairie) where she was respected for her strong work ethic and kindness to coworkers and customers.

She enjoyed finding a great bargain, and could often be found at local estate sales and many city-wide garage sales. She was known for swinging in just before a sale opened, often skipping her seatbelt between sales in town because it just “slowed her down.” She also had an extensive antique collection, and sold antiques as a side business, with multiple booths in the area.

An avid reader, she would fly through novels, especially James Patterson. She also enjoyed a good Hallmark Mystery movie.

Later in life, she found her love of the northwoods and enjoyed spending time at the cabin, relaxing on the sun porch before hitting up local flea markets.

Above all, Donalda’s greatest joy was her family, whom she loved fiercely. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother who treasured time spent with those she loved. She was always on the go, supporting her grandkids at sporting events. She had a warm heart, a caring spirit, and a special love for her dogs that brought her much happiness throughout her life.

Donalda will be deeply missed by her husband Allen and her children: Larry Douma of Watertown, Laura (Todd) Grossman of Marshall, Lance (Kristin) Douma of Holland, Michigan, and Kimberly (Thomas) Etter of Friendship; loving grandchildren: Justin (Emily), Jayden, Kale (Sydney), Kobe, Karter, Eleanor, Claire, Arabella, Tyden, and Adaya. She is further survived by her cousin Karen Papouschek and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her Aunt Laura Murphy.

A private family graveside service will be held at Hillside Cemetery in Columbus. A Celebration of Donalda’s life is being planned, and details will be released when available.