Donna Lee Ziel

Donna Lee Ziel of Pigeon, age 81, passed away on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Courtney Manor in Bad Axe, surrounded by her family. She was born at home in Kilmanagh on December 9, 1944, the daughter of the late Raymond and Ethel (Kundinger) Lutz. Donna graduated with the first graduating class of Laker High School in 1961.

On June 27, 1964, Donna married the love of her life, Lloyd Ziel, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kilmanagh. Together they shared nearly thirty-two years of marriage and many wonderful memories before Lloyd’s passing on April 16, 1996. Donna helped on the family farm while also building a successful business of her own.

Always creative and artistic, Donna turned her love of ceramics into Cloud of Dust, a ceramics shop she owned and operated for more than forty-five years. What began as a hobby grew into much more than a business. Donna taught ceramics classes to both children and adults, hosted regular coffee gatherings, and created a place where people could come together, visit, and create. Cloud of Dust became a community gathering place, especially for women, and many friendships were formed around the tables in her shop. Donna enjoyed sharing her creativity with others and often helped people create meaningful gifts, especially for those who may not otherwise have had much.

Donna was independent, hardworking, and ahead of her time in many ways. She knew people from all walks of life and had a way of bringing different families and groups of friends together. Above all, Donna was family-oriented and treasured the time she spent with those closest to her.

Donna liked to stay busy and especially enjoyed mowing the lawn. She loved getting dressed up and was rarely seen without looking her best. Often described as “glittery,” Donna loved a great purse, a beautiful piece of jewelry, and anything that added a little sparkle. Her creativity, independence, generosity, and welcoming nature were all part of what made Donna who she was.

Donna leaves to cherish her memory, her adoring sons, Lloyd David Ziel, Ken Ziel, and Tom & Anne Ziel; daughter-in-law, Gina Ziel; grandchildren, Bill & Krista, Alyssa & Eli, Ashley & Jared, and Shannon & Cade; great-grandchildren, Luca, Roman, Maggie, and Macie T; sister-in-law, Gerri Ziel; many nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to her parents and husband, Donna was preceded in death by her sister, Janice & Leon Roestel and brother-in-law, Marlin Ziel.

Donna’s funeral service will be on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church – Berne. Rev. Steve Neuman will officiate with the burial following at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery. The family will be present to receive visitors on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 from 4:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Pigeon and again at church on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of her service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Laker’s Art Department or St. John’s Lutheran Church – Berne.