Donna Jean Bangs

 Donna Bangs, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on January 10, 2025, at the age of 79. A woman of deep faith and boundless love, Donna was devoted to her family, her friends, and her community.

  Born in Conway, Missouri, on August 4, 1945, to Gene and Irene Durbin, Donna was raised with a strong sense of family and faith. She married Bob Bangs, the love of her life, and together they shared 61 years of a beautiful and faithful marriage. Donna and Bob’s relationship was built on love, respect, and a shared commitment to serving the Lord. Their enduring love was a foundation for their family, and their partnership was an example of grace and devotion.

  Donna was the beloved mother of Trina Lee (Larry), Tricia Bangs (Dale), and Bob Bangs Jr. (Shannon). She cherished her role as grandmother to her eight grandchildren: Kyle Archibeque, Cyrus Lien, Anthony Lee, Aryanna Brock, Sarah Bangs, Anna Terrell, Bethany Bangs, and Olivia Bangs, as well as her eight great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life.

  A woman of deep faith, Donna was an active member of her church, finding great comfort in her relationship with the Lord. Alongside Bob, she helped raise their children in the church, teaching them the values of love, faith, and compassion. Donna’s faith was a guiding force throughout her life, and she sought to share that love with everyone around her.

  Donna had a passion for reading, a love that allowed her to explore new worlds and gain wisdom from the stories of others. She worked for several years at the Mesa Verde Bookstore, where she shared her passion for books with visitors and fellow book lovers. Her work there was just one way she contributed to her community, and she took pride in being part of such a special place.

  In addition to her love for reading, Donna was a great cook, known for her delicious meals that brought family and friends together around the table. Her cooking was an expression of her love, and she took great joy in feeding and nurturing those she cared about.

  Donna also had a passion for sewing and quilting, hobbies she took great pride in. Her quilts, lovingly made with care and creativity, will be cherished heirlooms passed down through generations. Whether stitching together a beautiful quilt or sewing a thoughtful gift for a loved one, Donna’s hands were always busy making something special.

  In addition to her role as a devoted wife and mother, Donna had a warm and welcoming spirit. She made everyone feel like family, and her kindness and generosity touched the hearts of many. Donna had many dear friends, and her laughter, love, and presence will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

  Donna is also survived by her brother, Bob Durbin. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Bangs, who passed just 38 hours after her, and her parents, Gene and Irene Durbin.

  A joint celebration of Donna and Bob’s lives will be held on January 14, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Ertel Funeral Home in Cortez, Colorado. A burial will follow in the Veterans’ portion of the Cortez Cemetery.

  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Gideons International to help continue Donna’s legacy of sharing the Word of God.

  Donna’s legacy of faith, love, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Now at rest in the arms of the Lord, Donna is reunited with her beloved Bob, and together, they will continue to watch over their family with love and care.