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ESCANABA -- Donna Estelle Grondine, 91, of Escanaba, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026.
Donna was the eldest daughter of Iva and Bill Courier. From an early age, she had a caring heart and a natural instinct to look after others. She was always ready to lend a helping hand, offer a kind word, or simply be there when someone needed her. That compassion remained a defining part of who she was throughout her life.
Donna was a devoted Catholic, and her faith was the foundation of the life she lived. She carried her faith into everything she did, treating others with kindness, compassion, and quiet generosity.
In 1956, Donna married the love of her life, Willard Grondine Sr. Together, they built a life and raised their children on the family farm in Spalding Township until his untimely passing in 1985. Donna was a devoted wife and mother who worked hard both at home and outside the home, always putting her family first and doing whatever was needed for those she loved.
Donna spent 36 years at UPCAP, holding the titles of quality assurance specialist and services coordinator. Her dedication to helping others extended well beyond her career. She was a former member and president of the local Rotary and gave countless hours to organizations including Bridgewood, Camp Harstad, the Domestic Violence Alliance, and many others. She never hesitated when there was an opportunity to lend her time, talents, or support to someone in need or to make her community a better place.
Donna also appreciated the simple joys of life. She enjoyed traveling, music, reading, and spending time with the people she loved. Her family and friendships meant so much to her, and she created countless memories that will remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
Donna is survived by her children, Willard (Terry) Grondine Jr., Todd (Salle) Grondine, and Tami Pearl; her grandchildren, Melissa (Jeff) Gatien, Kelly (Dan) Zellar, and Cory (Marissa) Grondine; and her great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Andrew, and Connor Zellar, and Kiara and Cole Grondine.
She is also survived by her brother, Richard (Mary Ellen) Courier; her sister, Annette Villemure; her sisters-in-law, Jean Courier and Liz Courier; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Donna's life was blessed by friendships that lasted decades. She leaves behind her lifelong friends, Carol Gilligan, Dorothy Schmidt, Judy Mikus, Rosie Bellemore, Rocky (Barb) Tardiff, former brother-in-law Al Villemure, and her hairdresser and dear friend of 20 years, Kelly Carlson.
Donna was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; her in-laws, Samuel and Mary Grondine; and her brothers, Billy Courier, Edmond Courier, Harry Courier, Stephen Courier, and Paul Courier.
In keeping with Donna's wishes, there was no funeral service, and a private graveside burial was held. Memorial donations may be made in Donna's name to Camp Harstad or to a local charity of choice.