Dona Gilson

Dona Jean Gilson, age 90, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 10, 2024. Dona was born on November 17, 1933, in Otsego, the daughter of Harold and Pearl (Cole) Miller. She was born at her grandmother’s house during a blizzard. She graduated Plainwell high school. 

In 1951, she married the love of her life, Everett “Gil” Gilson. They were married for 62 years when he preceded her in death on May 17, 2014. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Robert H. Miller.

Surviving are her three children: Mark (Doreen) Gilson, Tanya (Tim) Griffioen and Jodie (Sherri) Gilson; brother Harold “Butch” Miller; 8 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild as well as many nieces and nephews.

Dona taught 4H sewing and classes in porcelain doll making. She dressed and repaired dolls for others. She was a talented seamstress sewing clothing for ladies and guys alike. She helped with little league baseball and gun safety classes with Gil. She enjoyed her garden and flowers as well. 

Dona is best known for owning and operating the Martin Hardware Store from 1968 to 2023. The hardware store was a family affair with most everyone involved. She lived for family and friends and considered all of you a blessing from God. She also loved her church family. She was a member of Martin Reformed Church since 1953.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 21 from 4:00 to 7:00 at the Martin Reformed Church; 1073 W Allegan St, Martin, MI 49070. A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 22 at 11:00 at the same location.

Memorials made in Dona’s memory can be made to Faith Hospice at Trillium Woods in Byron Center where she received excellent care and compassion.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Dona’s guestbook and/or share a memory with her family.

The Gilson family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes; 120 S. Woodhams St., Plainwell, MI 49080