Donna Jean Blesie, 78, of Manteca, passed away at the Hospice of San Joaquin after an extended battle with cancer. She was born Donna Jean Sackett on July 23, 1931, on a farm near Greenfield, Iowa, the daughter of Hiram and Dorothy Sackett. She has lived in Manteca for the last 13 years.

She was preceded in death by her ex-husband, Robert Blesie, and her beloved daughter, Jennifer Lee Parker, who passed away on September 21, 1998 in Manteca .

Donna is survived by her sister Kay Harris; her sons, Scott Blesie and Brad Blesie; her grandchildren, Jason Parker, Nicole Parker, Sarah Parker, Trevor Huntoon, Maria Blesie and Katherine Blesie; and her great-grandchildren Kyle Tharp and Devin Petersen.  

Donna came to California from Iowa in her early 20s and spent most of her adult life here, living at various times in Torrance, Mountain View, Sunnyvale and Manteca. Her passions were bridge, the sea, painting, and her ever-growing family. She was a member of Federated Women’s Club of Manteca, where she participated in community service of various types.

She had a large and loving family and many good friends, who will remember her for her warm heart, unlimited generosity, and indomitable spirit. We will miss her dearly.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18, at P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home, 290 North Union Road, Manteca, with internment at Park View Cemetery to follow. Arrangements will be handled by Park View Funeral Home, 3661 E. French Camp Road, Manteca. Flowers should be sent to Park View.