Donna Jean Bakke

Donna Jean Bakke, born March 28, 1950, of Bloomington, MN, passed away surrounded by loved ones on August 19, 2025 after a courageous battle with metastatic breast cancer. She was 75 years old. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, James and Thelma Slinde, and her brother, Jim Slinde. Donna is survived by her husband of 35 years, Paul Bakke; her children, Mike (Heidi) Johnson and Toni (Todd) Bethke; two granddaughters, Alyson Niesen and Tia Bethke; and her sister, Ginger Tollefson. Donna grew up on her family farm, the youngest of three children in Madison, MN. She later moved to the Minneapolis area where she raised her family in Richfield and then moved to Bloomington when she remarried. She worked as an administrative assistant for many years. She was truly organized, skilled and proficient and was found to be indispensable at any job she worked. Donna was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She lived a life filled with love, energy and creativity. She was an accomplished quilter and crafter, often sewing alongside friends to create quilts that brought warmth and comfort to many. Her handmade gifts and quilts remain cherished treasures for family and friends. An active and vibrant spirit, Donna was always on the move. She enjoyed participating in walkathons (often keeping pace with or passing the joggers) and walking with her close circle of friends as well as dancing and playing pickleball. She liked to travel, with her most recent adventures being a memorable Alaskan cruise, trip to Savannah, Georgia and to Florida. She found joy in hosting and attending gatherings large or small. Donna loved playing board games and trying new activities. She cherished time spent at the family's lake cabin fishing, boating, enjoying evenings by the fire making s'mores and creating countless memories with loved ones. Donna had a remarkable eye for style. She was a skillful shopper who never failed to find the perfect gifts and clothes for her loved ones. Donna was a true gardener. She filled her yard with beauty and generously split her hostas and plants to share with others and offered her gardening expertise. She also poured her creativity into art and decor from painting backdrops for the City of Bloomington Theater, to painting her own wrapping paper and decorating her table for the holidays. She was a devoted sports fan and was especially passionate about women's sports. She was an avid supporter of her granddaughters, nieces and nephews and enjoyed attending their activities and sporting events. Through it all, Donna's greatest joy came from spending time with her family and friends. Her warmth, strength, and unwavering support enriched the lives of everyone she touched. Donna's legacy is one of love, creativity and generosity. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. The family would like to thank the staff at M Fairview Ridges and NC Little Memorial Hospice for their exceptional care.

Donna Jean Bakke

March 28, 1950 - August 19, 2025

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