Beloved St. Cloud Matriarch Donna Holovnia Passes Away at 82

St. Cloud, Minnesota, USA - In a heartfelt farewell, the community mourns the loss of Donna Holovnia, who passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on June 23, 2025, at the St. Cloud Hospital. Born on May 10, 1943, in California, Donna’s roots lay in Minnesota, where she built a life rich in family values, compassion, and community involvement. She will always be remembered for her quiet strength and dedication.

Donna married Thomas Holovnia on July 8, 1961, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Delano. Together, they created a family that extends beyond mere numbers; it’s woven from bonds of love and memories. Survived by her husband of 63 years, sons Paul (Susie) and Jim (Kristen) Holovnia, and daughter-in-law Jason Sandberg, Donna also leaves behind a legacy of nine grandchildren and several great-grandchildren, as well as her brothers Dick (Donna) and John (Sherry) Martin. Despite her vibrant legacy, she was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Julie Sandberg.

A Legacy of Family and Community

Donna’s presence was felt not just within her family, but across her community. She took pride in her involvement with Saint Mary Help of Christians, where her compassion shone through. Whether she was sewing, volunteering, or camping with friends, each activity underscored her commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around her. Her life serves as a testament to the impact one person can have within their community.

Another poignant loss in this family was that of Julie M. Sandberg, who passed away at age 54 on August 14, 2023. Julie, the daughter of Donna and Thomas, had her own remarkable journey. With a professional background that included 12 years as a Pharmacy Technician and 14 years as a Chemist at Cargill, she made significant contributions not only to her family but also in her professional life. Julie was known for her love of outdoor activities, reading, and being an enthusiastic „dance mom“ to her daughters, Jennifer and Jessica, all while maintaining a humble and generous spirit. Her funeral service took place at Becker Baptist Church, ensuring that her memory continues to be cherished by family and friends alike, including her husband, Jason Sandberg.

The Role of Obituaries Across Cultures

The tributes paid to Donna and Julie highlight the essential role of obituaries within our society. These announcements do more than simply report a death; they encapsulate the essence of a person’s life, their connections, and their contributions to family and community. In the United States, obituaries often focus on achievements and personal relationships, reflecting broader cultural values. For example, while Japanese obituaries tend to be succinct, listing only essential details, Islamic obituaries emphasize faith and a return to Allah. In contrast, Native American obituaries celebrate cultural heritage, community roles, and tribal affiliations.

As society continues to evolve, so does the way we commemorate lives. The rise of digital media has transformed how we share and memorialize our loved ones, allowing for personalized tributes filled with photos, videos, and shared stories. More people are turning to social media to announce their loved ones‘ passing, further creating a communal space for mourning. Interestingly, there’s a growing trend toward writing one’s own obituary, a practice that encourages personal reflection and a lasting legacy.

This cultural interplay reveals why obituaries are vital—they not only honor those we’ve lost but also serve as a bridge connecting diverse traditions and practices surrounding death and remembrance. As we remember both Donna and Julie Holovnia, we also recognize the broader narrative of life they represent, illustrating the connections we hold dear, both in their lives and their legacies.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Donna Holovnia will be held at 10:30 a.m. on June 28, 2025, at St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church in St. Augusta, with visitation starting at 9:00 a.m. As her loved ones congregate to honor her memory, they carry forward the lessons of love, compassion, and community that she embodied so fully throughout her life.

For further details on the lives of these remarkable women, visit WJON and Patriot News. For a deeper understanding of how obituaries reflect cultural values, explore Oh My Facts.