Donna Stow

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

Donna Kay Stow, age 69, of Stotts City, MO passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO. 

She was born in California on Tuesday, February 28, 1956; daughter of Bill and Cecilia (Reynolds) Howerton. Donna and her brother, Richard, were raised by Calvin "Greek" and Cecilia Hawkins. Donna graduated from Pierce City High School. She had a way with animals and cared so much about them. She drove a truck across the country hauling cattle and produce for over twenty years. 

Donna enjoyed farming and taking care of her cows. She liked having people over to her house and would cook and bake for them, Donna spent many hours outside. She was an avid fisherman and always looked forward to the opening day of trout season. Her house would be full of people, excitement, and fishing stories. Donna cherished time talking with friends.

Donna is survived by two children, Jeremy (Beth) Fenske of Wentworth, MO and Kalina Fenske-Fortin; six grandchildren, Kali Fenske, Jacob Fenske-Seufert, Jemma Fenske, Macy Fenske, Brody Fortin, and Elaine Edwards; a brother, Richard Stow; and in-laws, John and Mary Stow. 

Donna was preceded in death by her parents; step-father; husband, John Matthew "Matt" Stow; and a son, Tyler Jacob Stow.

A Memorial Gathering will be at Van Buren Cemetery in Wentworth, MO on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, beginning at 3:00 PM. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, MO.