Elaine Donaldson

Elaine E. Donaldson, 83, Topeka, passed away on May 15, 2008. She was born on August 28, 1924 in Topeka, the daughter of Ernest and Ada Walters, and the sister of Chester B. Walters, Ceona Verner, Norman E. Walters, all deceased; and Naomi Cave, Kansas City, Mo; and her sister-in-law Doris J. and husband Duane V. Burke, Issaquah, WA.

Elaine was a graduate of Topeka High School. She was employed in the office of Alexander Brothers (Buttercrust) Bakery.

Elaine married Robert R. Donaldson on March 31, 1945 in Holton, Kansas. He survives. Elaine and Robert have three children: Daniel R. (Chearie) Donaldson, Topeka; Keary L. (Peggy) Donaldson, Omaha, NE; and Tracie E. (Kirk) Forkner, Corvalis, OR; and six grandchildren: Schaan Donaldson, Heather Scherer, Nicholas Lyons, Robert Forkner, and Michael Forkner; and five great-grandchildren. Elaine was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Jane Donaldson.

Elaine was the co-owner of Donaldson's Jewelers from 1965-1999. She volunteered at Stormont-Vail, was a member and past president of the Opti-Mrs. Auxiliary of the Topeka Optimist Club, and a 50 year member of the Beulah Chapter #34 Order of the Eastern Star. Elaine enjoyed playing golf, and was a member of the Shawnee Country Club for 20 years where she made many friends. She enjoyed sewing, crafts, and traveling with her husband, Robert.

Memorial services will be at 11 am, Monday, May 19 at Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel, with burial following directly in (Memorial Park) Penwell-Gabel Cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday, May 18, from 2-4 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Shriner's Children's Hospital Fund, 1305 SW Kansas Ave, Topeka 66603; or the charity of the donor's choice.