Donna Holmes Esbensen, born November 22, 1944, entered into eternal life on January 25, 2016, surrounded by her family. She was the devoted wife of Christopher Esbensen for over 51 years; the loving and exceptional mother of Kari Esbensen (Chouinard) and Lindsey Esbensen Schacht; and the magnificent grandmother of Magdalen and Emily Chouinard, and Aidan and Reagan Schacht. She is also survived by her sons-in-law, Kevin Chouinard and Henry Schacht, and by her beloved brother and sister-in-law, Donald and Cheryl Holmes. In eternal life, she has been reunited with her parents, Owen and Thelma Holmes, and her beloved brother, Gregory Holmes.
Donna had a brilliant mind and a gentle heart. She was loving, welcoming, courageous, strong, energetic, persistent (some might say stubborn!), creative, insightful, thoughtful, compassionate, kind, and always generous with her time and her many talents. She was a loyal friend and inspiring teacher to many, and, most importantly, she lived as God's faithful servant all the days of her life.
Donna's true passions were her family and her faith. Her family is most proud of the work she did in bringing others closer to God through her many ministries, particularly her work preparing catechumens for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Donna's memory to: RCIA Ministry or Ministry to the Sick, c/o St. Mary Magdalen Parish, 861 Maitland Avenue, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, February 1st, 10:00 am, at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, followed by a reception in the church's Family Life Center.