Donna M. Baechler

Donna Marie (Worner) Baechler, 80, died peacefully the morning of Saturday, October8, 2011 at Kindred Hospital in Peoria. Donna was born April 26, 1931, in Pekin, Illinois, to C. Nelson Worner and Cora (Heyl) Worner.She grew up on a farm in rural Manito, Illinois.Donna married Gilbert 'Gib' Baechler on June 5, 1955 in Forest City, Illinois. Surviving are two daughters, LeeAnn (Russ) Schweizer of Crystal Lake, Illinois and Nikki Baechler of Washington, Illinois; two granddaughters, Gabriela and Ysabel Schweizer, both of Crystal Lake, Illinois; one brother, Robert(Zoe Rene)Worner of Forest City, Illinois; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her sister, Betty Van Orman. Donna graduated from San Jose High School.In 1953 she received a degree in Education from Bradley University. After college, Donna began her teaching career at Dee-Mack High School followed by Tremont High School.She continued her teaching in Pekin District 108, where she retired in 1989.The next several years Donna enjoyed working locally for Sears. Donna was a member of First United Methodist Church in Pekin for 50 years.Donna was a committed and loving wife and mother, successfully balancing her work and home life.She enjoyed playing bridge, family gatherings and annual family vacationing in Longboat Key, Florida.Donna will be remembered most for her devotion to the needs of others. Memorial services will be held on October 16, 2011, 4:00 p.m., at First United Methodist Church, Pekin, Illinois.The Rev. Judy Doyle will officiate.Visitation will precede the funeral from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.Family will be receiving guests at Donna's home immediately following the memorial service.Cremation has been accorded. Arrangements have been entrusted to Henderson Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church in Pekin, Illinois or OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, Dept. of Food and Nutrition. Cemetery Meadow Lawn Cemetery Manito,IL 61546 Visitation Sunday, October 16, 2011 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM First United Methodist Church 1315 Court Street Pekin,IL 61554 Service Sunday, October 16, 2011 4:00 PM First United Methodist Church 1315 Court Street Pekin,IL 61554