Donnalie "Donna" Dorothy Fintel

Donnalie Tietjen-Fintel was born on June 21, 1939, in Deshler, Nebraska to her loving parents, Anita and Arnold Tietjen. She was baptized at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Byron, marking the beginning of a lifelong foundation of faith and community. Growing up on the family farm with her siblings Rosalie, Marty and Joe, Donnalie was surrounded by the values of hard work, responsibility, and togetherness. Some of her fondest memories came from doing daily chores—milking cows, tending the garden, and learning the skills of homemaking that would stay with her throughout her life. Donnalie attended Cracker Box Elementary School, where ten of her close-knit mates created friendships and memories that lasted well beyond childhood. She later went on to attend school at Byron High. Donnalie enjoyed every moment of her time there—both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities. She stayed active in sports, playing volleyball and softball, and she proudly served as a cheerleader, cheering on her classmates and embracing the spirit of school life. After graduating from high school, Donnalie moved to Lincoln, Nebraska, where she lived with her sister Rosalie. This move marked the beginning of her early work life and the start of her journey toward adulthood and independence. On May 19, 1959, Donnalie married Kenneth Fintel in Marysville, Kansas—a partnership that would grow into a full and beautiful family life. Together, they raised four children and were later blessed with nine grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren, each bringing joy, pride, and countless cherished memories. Donnalie and Kenneth lived in Lincoln until 1965, when they relocated to Valley, Nebraska. Valley became the heart of their family life, a place where Donnalie poured her time and energy into raising her children and supporting their activities and milestones. She was an active and devoted member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, where she found fellowship and purpose. Donnalie also participated in the Douglas County Fair Board and various city clubs and remained deeply involved in her children’s school and community events. For 32 years, Donnalie and her family owned and operated a grocery business. She took great pride in serving the community—meeting people, greeting familiar faces, and fostering connections. The service industry suited her well; her kindness made everyone feel welcome. But what truly defined Donnalie’s presence in the store was her warmth and genuine interest in others. She greeted customers with a smile and often knew their families, preferences, and stories. For many locals, stopping by the store wasn’t just an errand—it was a chance to chat, catch up, and feel part of a welcoming place. Donnalie loved the personal connections, the conversations in the aisles, and the opportunity to brighten someone’s day, even in small ways. After decades of dedication, Donnalie retired in 1998. In her retirement, Donnalie joyfully continued to serve. She volunteered at her church and within the retirement home and community, sharing her time, compassion, and gentle spirit with others. She also nurtured her love of gardening, often spending peaceful hours tending to the plants and flowers she adored. Above all, she treasured her time with family and friends, embracing moments of laughter, celebration, and connection. Donnalie’s life has been defined by faith, family, service, and love—values she lived out every day and passed on to those around her. Her story is one of hard work, devotion, generosity, and a heartfelt commitment to the people and communities she cherished. Donnalie passed away on June 4, 2026 surrounded by her family. She was preceded by her parents, her husband Ken, and daughters: Kebra McClellan and Rachelle Vencil. She is survived by her children Londa, and husband Brian Vencil of Waterloo, NE and David, and wife, Tina Fintel of Overland Park, KS; 9 grandchildren: Kellan (Meagan) Vencil, Brianne (Andrew) Biehl, Trent (Blair) Vencil, Justine (Kyle) Kibbie, Megan (Billy) Wisniewski, Connor McClellan, Cameryn (Justin) Harris, Gage Fintel and Brooke Fintel; 13 great grandchildren: Jack, Stella, Eli, Isaiah, June, Cecilia, Grayson, Nolan, Mackenzie, Kynlee, Weston, Sloane, and Wesley; and her brother Martin and wife Arlene Tietjen. Funeral services will be Tuesday, June 9, 10:30 AM at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Valley, NE. Interment at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Elkhorn. Visitation will be Monday from 5-7 PM at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. Memorials may be made to the church.

Donnalie "Donna" Dorothy Fintel

June 21, 1939 - June 4, 2026