Donna JoAnn Jensen

Donna JoAnn (Houck) Buckley Jensen was born September 15, 1933 in Valley, Nebraska to Robert and Mildred (Oldham) Houck. Donna grew up in Valley and attended school there, graduating from Valley High School in 1951. As a young girl, she was active in 4-H, and modeled at the Douglas County Fair. She later attended Metropolitan Community College, and earned a degree in Flower Design and Horticulture. She received lots of recognition for her designs while at Metro, and she was proud when her creations were highlighted. Donna married Marcus “Bud” Buckley and they were blessed with three sons; Mark, Larry and Rob. Bud died unexpectedly on March 24, 1988. Donna later married Francis “Fran” Jensen, and they spent many years together; traveling to Texas and helping him remodel houses. Fran preceded her in death on March 5, 2018. Donna worked for a time at Builder’s Supply in Omaha, worked as a secretary at Children’s Hospital in Omaha for 15 years. She was an active member of United Faith Community Church in Valley, and volunteered at Aransas Pass Hospital in Texas. She was also active with her kid’s activities; as a Den mother, PTA Treasurer, and even driving the school bus. Donna was in bowling leagues for many years, and loved to bowl. She earned her way into the “600 Club”. She played Bunco and Tripoli with her friends, and enjoyed going to garage sales with Jo, Audrey, and later, Noah. She appreciated art of all kinds, but especially enjoyed water color pictures. She loved wild flowers, especially daisies, and spent time sewing and reading. She loved living on the river, and the wildlife she would see there, but most of all she cherished her family, especially the holidays together. Donna passed away on Thursday, September 30, 2021 at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 88 years, and 15 days. She was preceded in death by husbands Marcus “Bud” Buckley and Francis Jensen, brother Bob Houck and sister Opal Clark. Donna is survived by sons & daughters-in-law Mark & Corri Buckley of Omaha, Larry & Rhonda Buckley of Valley, NE, and Rob & Tammy Buckley of Fremont, NE, 11 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, her dog Sophie, and many other family members and long-time friends. Graveside inurnment 11:30 AM Wednesday at Pleasant View Cemetery, Leshara, NE. A luncheon will follow the burial at The Campus building in Valley. Memorials to the Nebraska Humane Society.

Donna JoAnn Jensen

September 15, 1933 - September 30, 2021