Donna Jean Ehlers

Donna Ehlers, beloved mother of three children, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, passed away on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, after a brief illness.

Donna was born at home in Englewood, Colorado on September 19, 1937. She was welcomed by her older brothers, Neil and Tom, and just a short 362 days later, her younger brother Jack was born, cementing her place in the family of four siblings as “Sis.” Donna took ballet lessons to help develop her legs, and she eventually was able to dance “en pointe,” which was a source of pride.

After high school graduation, Donna went to work for Colorado Central Power as a secretary, eventually leaving the position to become a stay-at-home mother to her son, Rick, as well as her step-children, Kathie and Lee Trimmer. Daughters, Susan and Donna “Shelley”, rounded out the large family that relocated to Yuma, Colorado in the early 60’s. At that time, Donna assisted with the bookkeeping for the family gas stations but spent the majority of her days caring for her family. At this time, her favorite pastime was bowling, and she participated in a Wednesday afternoon coffee league and the Monday night league. Donna attended the state bowling tournament for many years, placing well.

Donna married Don Ehlers on February 7th, 1980. Donna and Don traveled throughout the Midwest states erecting center pivot sprinkler systems with Don’s crew. Donna took over the wiring duties because her slimmer fingers were better able to work inside the control box. After Don’s passing in late 1989, Donna relocated back to Englewood, and spent time caring for her granddaughters, Jacqueline and Melissa. Donna eventually settled at Geneva Village in Littleton, where she made many friends. Her final residence at Littleton Crossing allowed her to enjoy the company of both old and new friends.

During her free time, Donna was an avid reader and was very proud of her Ann Rule collection. She enjoyed visiting her family, doing Crossword and Word Search puzzles, sitting outside with family and friends, seeing her family’s dogs, and never said no to pizza or ice cream.

Donna was preceded in death by her son, Rick Trimmer; her husband, Don Ehlers; her parents, Charles and Dorothy Summers; her brother Neil Summers and his wife Karen Summers; nephew Donald Summers; and her brother Tom Summers.

Her legacy is carried on by her daughter, Susan Johnson and granddaughter Andrea; her daughter Shelley Murphy and son-in-law Ralph, and granddaughters Jacqueline and Melissa; her daughter-in-law, Renae Trimmer, grandchildren Sharla and Adam, and great-grandson Titus. She is also survived by her brother, Jack Summers, her nephew, Howard Summers, and other nieces and nephews.

Donna was beloved by many, even those she knew for only a short time. She will be dearly missed.

Donna’s Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 3rd, 2025, at 10am at Heflebower Funeral Services, 8955 S. Ridgeline Blvd Suite 100, Highlands Ranch, Colorado 80129 with interment to follow at Littleton Cemetery. The family will host a reception at Shelley and Ralph’s home following the conclusion of services.

Please share memories of Donna with her family by signing the online guestbook below.