Donna Jane Schlenbaker

Donna Jane (Carpenter) Schlenbaker, age 75, a longtime resident of Maumee, Ohio passed away Friday, October 18th at The University of Toledo Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family. She was born April 27, 1949 in Oberlin, Ohio to Albert D. and Anita B. (Rogers) Carpenter. Donna graduated from Wellington High School, Class of 1967. She became a Certified Ophthalmology Technician, a career she enjoyed for more than 18 years until she ultimately found her true passion: babysitting the little ones of “her village”. Those of you lucky enough to be part of that village, know that you were also family.

She loved spoiling her family with special gifts and trinkets of all kinds, many of which came without warning or cards saying who sent them, leaving her family to shake their heads and laugh because they always knew. “Over-the-top” holiday celebrations were the norm for Donna when it came to her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and children she babysat. She so much wanted her family to know they were always on her mind and in her heart.

Donna felt blessed to have married the love of her life, Daniel Schlenbaker in 1977. Together they shared 47 years creating wonderful memories with family and friends. Donna and Dann enjoyed traveling to visit family from Toledo to California and Washington, watching their family grow.

Being an avid Ohio State Buckeyes, Cleveland Indians and Washington Cougars fan, where her grandson played, meant Donna cheered them onto several wins but still remained a supporter when those wins were fewer. She also enjoyed quiet times watching some of her favorite TV shows, like Dr. Phil, Law & Order and General Hospital.

Donna also loved music and was so excited when she met one of her favorite artists, Johnny Mathis after he performed at the Stranahan. Her love of music continued to other performers like Jon Bon Jovi and Justin Bieber, who she also met with her granddaughter, Jordan.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Anita Carpenter. She is survived by her loving husband, Dann Schlenbaker; children, Lysa (Peter), Kim, and Brett (Kendra); grandchildren, Jordan (Jordon), Austin, Levi (Micha), Karson (Trevor), Djennika, Djouvensky, Jared, Izzabella, and Hudson; great grandchildren, Emilee, Treyson, Kayden, Nash, and Arabella and siblings: Tom (Nancy), Kay, Carol, and Janet (Stephen). Also left to cherish Donna's memory are many dear and special friends.

A Celebration of Life to remember Donna will be planned at a later date.

To share a memory of Donna or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.