Donna Jean (Ball) Bocks, age 93, of Holland, Michigan, daughter of Thelma Arnold, passed away Sunday, November 23, 2025. She was born June 5, 1932, in Marshall, MI. Donna was married to Martin Edward Ball (25 years), of Jackson, MI who passed away in 1978 and Robert Bocks (23 years), of Holland, who passed away in 2008.
She is survived by her children; Patrick and Sandra Ball, Thomas and Colleen Ball, and Susan and Anthony Mills; grandchildren and great grandchildren, Sadie and Kenny Ebanyat (Zoe and K.J.), Martin Ball, Travis Ball, Sarah and Kirk Wolters (Deakon and Juke), Caroline Burns (Esmeralda), and Caleb Mills.
Donna graduated from Western Michigan University with a teaching degree in One Room Schoolhouse. Her hopes were to teach in a one room school.
She regularly attended Holland Methodist Church and was a member of the Tuesday Book Club. The longest continuous book club in Holland. Donna ran a catering business and was a world class whistler.
Donna was known for wearing fabulous white blouses. She was an author of eight novellas as well as several magazine and newspaper articles. Donna was well traveled, a true cowgirl at heart, owned and rode her own horse Moses until her 80’s, a ballroom dance enthusiast, and a chocolatier.
By many she would be considered an amazing survivor, overcoming tremendous worldly obstacles with grace and determination. She was strong beyond measure. Donna taught her family to love, to bake, to laugh, and to do the hard things in life.
No service or visitation will be held. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to a favorite charity in Donna’s memory.
Arrangements are by the Dykstra Funeral Home-Downtown Chapel.
Comments