Mary Donner

Mary Donner, 70, of Murray, Iowa passed away on February 7, 2023. In typical Mary fashion, a Celebration of Life will be held on March 3rd, 4th, and 5th at her home in Murray. Memorials may be made to her family.

Mary Francis (Batman) Donner was born on March 3, 1952, in Derby, Iowa to Robert and Maymie (Benway) Batman. She attended school and graduated from Chariton High School.

Mary married Robert Donner III and the couple was blessed with two sons, Matt and Chad.

Mary worked at several places throughout the years. She owned a restaurant in Chariton called “Mary’s Pizza”. Most recently, she was a card dealer and thoroughly enjoyed it. She was even known for dealing cards at parties. Mary traveled all over the United States and never knew a stranger. She made friends wherever she went, and if you ever met her, you didn’t forget her. Once a friend, always a friend. She was very social and loved to have fun.

Animals were near and dear to Mary’s heart. She had quite the history of rescuing animals. She cared for many animals over the years, from cats and dogs to birds and rats. Birdwatching was a favorite pastime, and she could name every bird that came to her feeder. Mary had a green thumb and enjoyed planting flowers for the birds. She loved being outdoors and worked diligently in her garden every year. She canned much of what she grew and was quick to share it with those she loved.

Mary had a unique sense of humor, even in situations that were tough. She could find a way to make light of any subject, adding a twist of humor to it. As her cribbage partner, Zach Fisher said, “Mary was able to find the humor in every situation. She would keep you on your toes, even though she didn’t have all of hers. What a legend.”

Mary loved spending time with her boys. They enjoyed countless golf outings together. She enjoyed music and when Matt was playing in a band, you would always find her there watching, listening, and enjoying herself. She even helped with the philly cheesesteak stand they ran for a while. Along with her love of music, Mary would always make friends with the bands that played along with The Mutts and kept up with them over the years. Because of this, she was dubbed “Mama Mutt”.

Mary’s best friend Cindy said, “If someone needed help she was there for them. I believe God put her on earth as everybody’s angel because she helped a person no matter color, religion, or beliefs. Thank you, God, for lending Mary to us for 70 years.”

Mary will be dearly missed by her sons: Matt (Nikki) Donner and Chad (Mireya) Donner; grandson, DJ Corson; best friend and “sister,” Cindy Major; as well as many more family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Maymie; brother, Arthur Batman; and husband, Robert Donner III.