Karl “Chris” Dona, 82 of Buena Vida, West Melbourne, Florida formerly of Delmar, Iowa passed away on Monday, March 27, 2023 at Holmes Regional Medical Center in Melbourne, Florida.

His memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation. A time of fellowship will be held immediately following his memorial service at Buzzy’s in Welton. A graveside service with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at Rock Island Arsenal National Cemetery.

Karl Christian was born on January 29, 1941 in Clinton County, Iowa to Karl and Margarethe (Hoffman) Dona. He graduated in 1959 from Lost Nation High School. After graduation he farmed and attended Clinton County Community College and Iowa State University earning his Farm Operation Degree in 1963. He served in the United States Army and faithfully and honorably served in Vietnam from 1967-1968. Karl was a combat Infantry Soldier with the 1st Infantry; Charlie Co 2nd Battalion 28th Infantry “Black Lions.” He was honored to attend the Honor Flight. He was a member of the Menzo Widle American Legion Post 0381 of Lost Nation where he served as Past Commander for several years. Over 55 years ago he was united in marriage
to the love of his life Patricia Benischek at St. James Catholic Church in Toronto. Karl and his wife farmed for many years in Clinton County, Iowa.

He enjoyed playing cards and visiting with his old Iowa friends and new friends in Florida. He was a handyman and liked to fix up anything that needed it. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he loved spending time with them and his family. Karl was always telling jokes and could put a smile on anyone’s face.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Patricia of West Melbourne, FL, two daughters; Karla (Greg) Frede of Grafton, WI, Brenda (Gary) Holderness of North Liberty, IA, a son-in-law
John (Janice) Bishop of Mount Vernon, eight grandchildren; Alison Frede, Collin Frede, Emily Frede, Amanda Holderness, Bradley Holderness, Christopher Holderness, Eva Bishop, and John
Bishop, two brothers; John (Esther) Dona of Arkon, NY, Robert (Cynthia) Dona of Troy, MI, a sister Anna (Curtis) Pilgrim of Thomsen, IL and many special nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a daughter Linda Dona Bishop.