Donna Blochowitz

Donna Gail Blochowitz, beloved nurse, devoted mother, and gifted pianist, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026. She was born on August 27, 1937, in Ames, Iowa. Throughout her life, Donna was known for her kindness, dedication, and deep love for her family and community.

Donna was the daughter of Meriden Lawrence Rankin and Vida Fern Jorstad. She grew up in Colo, Iowa, where she excelled in school. She was a spelling bee champion and graduated as valedictorian of Colo High School. She went on to follow her calling in healthcare, earning her Registered Nurse degree from the Iowa Methodist School of Nursing. Donna spent many years caring for others, serving as head nurse in the Emergency Room and in Admitting at Blank Children’s Hospital and later as a labor and delivery nurse at Iowa Methodist Hospital. Her compassion and professionalism left a lasting impression on both coworkers and patients.

Faith and music played a big role in Donna’s life. She was a longtime member of Grace Avenue United Methodist Church, and growing up she shared her love of music as a church pianist at Colo United Methodist Church. She also enjoyed accompanying groups at school events, bringing joy to many through her piano playing. Donna stayed active in her community through groups such as Lydia, the Women’s Auxiliary Christmas Shop, Stretch & Sew, and the Bull Valley Garden Club.

In her free time, Donna loved sewing, crocheting, cross stitch, reading, crossword puzzles, and especially playing the piano. As a young woman, she showed her strong work ethic by spending many summers detasseling corn and eventually becoming foreman of a detasseling crew.

On October 12, 1958, Donna married Roland “Ron” Blochowitz. Together they built a loving family. Donna is survived by her son, Scott Blochowitz; her daughter, Hila (Andy) Cartwright; her grandchildren, John (Emma) Blochowitz and Jack Cartwright; and her great-grandson, Jason (Randy’s son), who all brought her great joy. She is also survived by her brother, David (Diane) Rankin; her sister, Hila (Bob) Garms; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will miss her dearly. Her cat, Bubba, was a cherished companion in her later years.

Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Roland “Ron” Blochowitz; daughter-in-law Judith Blochowitz; grandson Randy Blochowitz; her parents, Meriden and Vida Rankin; her parents-in-law, Albert and Henny Blochowitz; her sister, Margaret Rankin; brothers-in-law Merle Buntjer, John Eilders, and Gilbert “Gib” Blochowitz; sisters-in-law Adith Buntjer, Margie Blochowitz, and Darlene Eilders; as well as nieces Lori Buntjer Schultz, Judy Eilders, and nephews Lee Buntjer and Steve Buntjer.

Donna lived a life full of service, creativity, and love. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of compassion, faith, and strength. Her gentle spirit and caring heart will be remembered by all who knew her, and her memory will continue to live on through the family and community she so deeply loved.