Donna Lou Mortensen, age 89, of Luck, Wisconsin, passed away on Aug. 30, 2025, at Lawson Manor Assisted Living in Luck. Donna was born to James and Lena Caspersen on Dec. 10, 1935, in Eureka Center, Wisconsin.
Donna’s childhood was shaped by the Great Depression, growing up on a farm with three siblings, Marvin, Carol and Gloria. The farm had no electricity and no indoor plumbing. After graduating high school, Donna completed the Normal School in St. Croix Falls and became a teacher in a one room schoolhouse.
Donna met Hartvig Mortensen and they married in 1957, settling in Luck. Hartvig was a dairy farmer and Donna and Hartvig continued farming until they retired. It was a true partnership with Hartvig focusing on the farm work and Donna focusing on the house, bookkeeping, taxes and a large garden. They both prioritized their family, church and living a life filled with community, nature and curiosity.
While farming, Donna and Hartvig and their family managed to travel across the country exploring parks and visiting extended family. They lived a modest life which allowed them to retire at an age when they were healthy and had time to continue exploring this country and maintaining connection with a large extended family.
Donna is survived by sons, Alan (Susan) and Duane (Joan) Mortensen; five grandchildren and two great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Beverly Caspersen; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and other loving family and friends. With those who knew her, we are saddened by her passing but comforted by the fact that she lived a long and happy life.
It was a life well lived.
Funeral services have already been held at the time of this announcement.
You are invited to leave condolences, memories and photos at rowefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rowe Funeral Home in Luck, 715-472-2444, and the Northwest Wisconsin Cremation Center in Milltown, nwwicremationcenter.com.
