Donna J. Nehmelman, 88, of Kouts formerly of Michigan City passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, August 17, 2022. She was born June 8, 1934 in Easton, Illinois to George & Nellie Mae (Close) List and graduated from Easton High School in 1952. On June 1, 1952 she married Ralph A. Nehmelman who preceded her in death on June 2, 2020. Survivors include their children; Marcia Ricker of Kouts, Michael Nehmelman of Portage, Indiana, “adopted” son, John Strutz of Florida, grandchildren; Eric & Lisa Ricker, and great grandchildren; Jayden, Hailey & Leon. She was also preceded in death by one son, Scott Nehmelman in 1974, and her brother, Glen List.
Donna loved nature, especially its wildlife, caring for every manner of animal that may have needed help within her realm. She went so far as to be licensed by the State of Indiana to rehab white tailed deer. Working with her husband Ralph, she enjoyed the interactions and friendships that developed with their longtime clients and the opportunity it offered her to foster, bison, deer, goats, sheep, peacocks, every manner of poultry, hummingbirds, and any other furry or feathered friend that may have wandered on to the property. Teaching the children that spent time on the property about the animals was always a special joy, as Donna relished sharing her knowledge with these hungry young minds. The wildlife haven she created continues to attract every manner of wild creature, whether they are seeking long-term accommodation or just a safe place to rest and replenish along their longer journey.
A visitation will be held Sunday from 1 – 4 pm at Kosanke Funeral Home, (new location) 309 S. Main St., Kouts. A private burial will take place Monday at Swan Lake Memorial Gardens in Michigan City. Memorial donations may be made to Dunes Hospice, 4711 Evans Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383.
Marcia and Mike and family, Dale and I want to send our deepest sympathy to you and your family. I have wonderful memories of both your parents. Dale and I can't come to visitation due to having Covid. Love to all of you. God Bless. -Janet and Dale Perry
