Donna Heighton

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Donna Heighton, on her 90th birthday, June 23, 2026. While extremely difficult, we rejoice in knowing she had the ultimate birthday celebration in heaven.

Donna was born on June 23, 1936 in Plainwell, MI, the daughter of Willis and Florence Lappin. Simply put, she was the heart of our family. Known for her kindness, quick wit and gentle spirit, she had a way of making everyone feel special, welcomed and loved.

Donna grew up on her family’s farm in Alamo Township and went on to raise her own family, spending many wonderful years in Parchment. Following decades of service at Kalsee Credit Union, she retired early to move with her husband, Jack, to their home “Up North”. Countless family gatherings and fun were had by all on memorable weekend and summer trips. Years later, Jack and Donna moved back to Parchment, where she worked part-time as the office manager at her son’s business, P & C Autobody. She enjoyed her time there so much that she worked until the age of eighty.

Following Jack’s death, she moved out to Gun Lake to be closer to family. For the past three years Donna enjoyed living at Green Acres of Wayland. She loved the staff, residents and all the fun social activities and events. The family cannot thank the leadership and staff enough for loving their mother with the whole heart.

Above all, her greatest joy was her family. Donna is survived by her brother, Ivan Lappin, sister-in-law, Alice Lappin, brother-in-law, Jim Duncan; four children, Steve (Katie) Cook, Denny (Mary) Cook, Angie (Doug) Santee and Perry (Ann Marie) Cook; twelve grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren, and countless extended family and friends, who will forever cherish the memories they shared. Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Heighton, sister, Dorla Lappin, brother, Albert Lappin, and sister-in-law, Jasna Lappin.

Though we miss our mom more than words can say, we find comfort in knowing the memories we created will live in our hearts forever, and that her legacy will live on in all who were blessed enough to know and love her.

Family and friends are invited to gather from 11 AM - 1 PM on Monday, June 29, 2026 at Adams-Redmond Funeral Home, 4100 S. Westnedge Ave., Kalamazoo, where a memorial service will be held at 1 PM. A luncheon will be held immediately following the service. She will be laid to rest with Jack at Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date. For those wishing to make a contribution in Donna’s memory, please consider Green Acres of Wayland (Wayland, MI) or Interim Health Care and Hospice (Kalamazoo, MI).