Donna Heitmiller

Donna Lea Heitmiller, age 90, of West, passed away Wednesday morning, June 11, 2025 at West Rest Haven.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 23, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption, with Rev. Ed Karasek as celebrant. Burial will follow at Closner Cemetery near West. The family will receive visitors from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, June 22, 2025 at Aderhold Funeral Home.

Donna was born on May 4, 1935, in Amarillo, Texas, the daughter of Noble and Peggy (Wood) Fowlkes. A proud graduate of Amarillo High School, class of 1952, Donna embarked on a path that would lead her to many fulfilling roles. On October 31, 1964 she married Kenneth "K.K." Heitmiller, who became her steadfast partner until his passing on September 28, 2002. Together, they shared a vision that brought to life the original Heitmiller Family Steakhouse in Elm Mott, a beloved establishment that resonated with the community. Under their guidance, the restaurant was honored with the Restaurant of the Year Award by the Texas Restaurant Association in 2002, a testament to the care and passion she poured into her work. Donna was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption, actively engaging with the Catholic Daughters of America Court #829, where she contributed her time and spirit. Her faith and having a wonderful childhood guided her through life's challenges and joys alike. Beyond her professional accomplishments she found joy in listening to music, nurturing her garden, and caring for her beloved pets. A lover of horses and shopping, she appreciated the simple pleasures of life and the beauty around her. Most importantly, she cherished the moments spent with her family.

Donna is also preceded in death by her parents; her son, Dale Dean Heitmiller; a son-in-law, Albert Narath; and her sisters, Sherrie Cates and Connie Micou.

Survivors include her children, Shanna Narath of Albuquerque, NM, Peggy Pustejovsky and husband Leon of West, Melanie Anthony and husband Billy of West, and Kyle Heitmiller and wife Pam of Belton; daughter-in-law, Delaine Wolf of Elm Mott; grandchildren, Risha Beasley and husband Craig, Martin Cernosek and wife Allison Mitchell, Brandie Smith and husband Devin, Tracie Griffin and husband Brad, Jeff Pustejovsky and wife Amanda, Glenda McNair, Stephanie Nors and husband Joshua, Emily McNair, Brett Bagley and husband Rob, Blair Hodges and husband Clayton, Brooke Machac and husband A.J., Bailey Glos and husband Brady, Beau Heitmiller and wife Bayleigh, and Clayton Heitmiller; 32 great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren on the way; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Active pallbearers are Craig Beasley, Martin Cernosek, Jeff Pustejovsky, Joshua Nors, Beau Heitmiller, and Clayton Heitmiller. Honorary pallbearers are Leon Pustejovsky and Billy Anthony.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Catholic Daughters of America Court #829, www.assumptionwest.org or the charity of your choice.