CROSS

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donita Lynn Cross of Rimbey, Alberta on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at the age of 68 years.  Born on March 18, 1958 in Tofield, Alberta, Donita was affectionately known as “Dee Dee” by her family and close friends and was a deeply loved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.  She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that those who knew and loved her will treasure. 

Over the years, Donita and her husband, Blaine, built a family that held a special place in her heart.  She was soft-spoken and welcoming, with a big heart and a wonderful sense of humour.  Donita had a thoughtful way of showing people they mattered; with flowers to brighten someone’s day, a carefully chosen gift, or simply by making time to be together.  Her kindness lived in those small gestures, and they now leave some of the most precious memories. 

Alongside her gentle nature was a quiet strength.  Donita was resilient and determined, and those qualities were as much a part of her as her warmth and laughter was.  As a nurse and a stay-at-home mom, she devoted so much of herself to caring for others.  She loved watching her sons play hockey, she enjoyed volleyball and watching sports, and she treasured camping and fishing with family and friends.  The time Donita shared with the people she loved made those moments meaningful.

Her absence will be felt deeply in family gatherings, familiar conversations, shared laughter, and in all the everyday moments when those who loved her will wish she were still beside them.  Donita’s family will carry her memory forward in the stories they tell, the kindness they share, and the love that continues to connect them.

Donita will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 49 years, Blaine; their four sons Danny (Shandra), Derek (Caitlyn), Clayton, and Zach (Leeann); as well as her five cherished grandchildren Kailey, Kaleya, Koby, Quaide, and Kai.  She will also be deeply missed by her brother Wilf (Corrine) Story; her two sisters Laurel (Bill) Hutton, and Debbie (Jim) Kirkpatrick; in addition to several nieces and nephews, many other relatives, and numerous treasured friends.  Donita was predeceased by her parents, John and Lorraine Story.

“Loved beyond words, missed beyond measure, and forever held in our hearts.”

A Funeral Service in Celebration of Donita’s Life will be held at the Keyera Place Community Centre, 5109 – 54 Street, Rimbey on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Mark Schultz officiating.  Interment will follow at 4:00 p.m. in the Iola Fairview Cemetery, Bluffton. 

If desired, memorial donations in Donita’s memory may be made directly to the Boys and Girls Club Wolf Creek Rimbey, c/o BGC Wolf Creek, Box 4115, Ponoka, Alberta  T4J 1R5 (www.rimbey.bgcwolfcreek.com).  Thoughts and messages to the family may be shared through the condolence area located at the bottom of this page. 

Funeral and Burial Arrangements for the late Donita Lynn Cross entrusted to the care of