Donna Rachel Kirkpatrick
Donna Rachel Kirkpatrick, formerly of Eureka, died on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, in Wichita, at the age of 43. She was born on May 24, 1980 in Wichita, the daughter of Donal Paul and Nora Toletha (Raines) Kirkpatrick. She was raised in Eureka, graduating from Eureka Junior Senior High School with the Class of 1998. On December 5, 1998, Donna was united in marriage to John Cheever in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. To this union, one daughter was born. This marriage later ended in divorce. Donna worked at Washington Elementary School in El Dorado as a Building Aid, and later she worked as a Legal Assistant for an attorney.
Donna's laughter could fill a room, and her vibrant spirit was as contagious as her smile. Spontaneous adventures were her trademark, leaving behind a trail of happy memories for those who knew her. She possessed a magnetic personality that drew people in, making them feel instantly at ease and ready for whatever fun Donna had planned.
Children adored Donna. Her playful nature and endless capacity for fun made her a natural companion for them. Donna was a tomboy at heart, perfectly happy to trade dolls for fishing rods and explore the beauty of the outdoors. This love of nature, combined with her nurturing spirit, made her an amazing mother. She was fiercely dedicated to her daughter, always striving to do the absolute best she could to provide her with love, support, and a lifetime of cherished memories. Her daughter loved her very much.
Donna is survived by her daughter, Josie Cheever of Haysville; six siblings: Angie Taylor of Augusta; Johnathan Goodwin of El Dorado; Leanne Cook of Alabama; Doug Cox of Caledonia, Mississippi; Erin Kirkpatrick of El Dorado; and Kelly Kirkpatrick of Eureka; and a host of nephews, nieces, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Phillip’s Cabin, at Eureka Lake. Cremation has been effected. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Janesville Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Donna Kirkpatrick Memorial Fund. Contributions may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, PO Box 595, Eureka, KS 67045, which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family online, at koupfunerals.com.
FAMILY-OWNED AND OPERATED