Donna Lee Ausmus, 74, died on Nov. 2 in her sleep.

Born in Portland on July 2, 1935, to Ella and Everett Peckham, Ausmus spent her childhood in the Pacific Northwest.

After high school, Ausmus worked as a Dental Assistant in Auburn, Wash., Denver, Colo., and Salem.  While working in Auburn, she met Stan Ausmus whom she married on Dec. 31, 1970, blending together a family of six children from previous marriages.

The couple worked together for 25 years with the Holiday Retirement Corporation as regional managers, management training and in resident relations. They retired together in 2007. After retiring, they bought an RV and spent many hours on the road traveling with their two beloved dogs, Muffin and Teddy.

Ausmus’ personal interests included scrapbooking, reading, and beachcombing.  She was a devoted wife, mother and friend.

She is survived by her husband, Stan; mother, Ella; sister, Janice; five children; 13 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. One son preceded her in death.

A memorial service for friends and family will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 14, at East Salem Seventh-day Adventist Church at 5575 Fruitland Road N.E. in Salem.

Memorials and gifts may be made to Livingstone Adventist Academy at 5771 Fruitland Road N.E. Salem, OR 97317.
For additional information or if you wish to leave condolences or memories of Ausmus, visit www.vtgolden.com.  Arrangements by Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service, Salem.