Reese M. Donnay

Age 18, of Rogers passed away at her home surrounded by family on April 9, 2024, after an 11-year battle with Juvenile Batten Disease.  

Reese was born on December 11, 2005 at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids to Ryan and Sara (Johnson) Donnay. They lived in Elk River, where she attended school at Meadowvale and Twin Lakes Elementary before moving to Rogers in 6th grade. She was currently in the 12th grade at Rogers High School.  

Reese was diagnosed with Juvenile Batten Disease in February of 2013. She faced every stage of this disease with incredible strength and determination. She battled through each obstacle that came her way with courage and bravery.     

Reese enjoyed spending time listening to music by Kacey Musgraves, watching Grey’s Anatomy or her favorite game shows, playing games, and spending time with her family. She loved watching and cheering for Minnesota Gophers sports teams, specifically the volleyball team. She was also an avid follower of her siblings athletic activities, always requesting score and win/loss updates. Reese enjoyed warm, sunny days that allowed her to take walks and sit outside.  

School was one of Reese’s favorite places to be. Her favorite activities at school included craft projects, playing games with friends, listening to music, helping with the coffee cart, and going on walks. Reese had an amazing school family who created a safe and supportive environment that allowed her to engage with peers and participate in activities while accommodating for her changing needs. Many people have worked tirelessly to support, advocate, and engage with Reese to continue to make it a place she enjoyed being. She was able to attend school up until a few days before she passed because of the love and care she received from those who worked in the special education program at Rogers High School. Her school family will forever hold a special place in our hearts.  

Her school family includes: Sarah Trushenski, her constant companion since 2nd grade. Ellie Warzecha, Kasi Parrish, Becca Weber, Susan Strain, Kristin Scott, Lora Benson, and Missy Abrahamson. In addition, the many others who supported Reese this school year and those who have been a part of her journey throughout her school years.  

Reese is survived by her parents, Ryan and Sara; siblings, Cade and Hadley; grandparents, Roger and Pat Donnay, Paul and Lori Johnson, and Connie Johnson and Bruce Jeremiason; as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, and other family and friends. She is preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Morris and Fae Johnson, Vernon and Herma Hoffman, Ernie and Martha Stoeckmann, and LeRoy Donnay. 

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 6:00 PM on Thursday, April 18, 2024 at Dare’s Funeral Home, 805 Main St NW, Elk River following a private family memorial service.  

Memorials in Reese’s name may be directed to HopeKids-MN (www.hopekids.org/donate), Make A Wish (https://wish.org.minnesota), and BDSRA (https://bdsrafoundation.org/).

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