Donna Lynn Hale

Donna Lynn Hale passed away on August 26, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa. She was born on April 7, 1952, in Marshalltown, Iowa.

Donna graduated from Marshalltown High School and later attended a secretarial trade school in Washington State. She married the love of her life, Bradley Hale, on November 17, 1974, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Over the years, Donna built a strong work life centered on dedication and service to others. She worked as an Administrative Assistant for Hansen Printing in Des Moines, Iowa. Later, she worked for Jennie's Grinder as manager at the Hubbell location and also helped each year at the Iowa State Fair booth. She also took special pride in watching over and caring for her “grand-dogs,” something that brought her a great deal of joy.

Donna enjoyed many things that made life full and memorable. She loved bowling and enjoyed collecting lighthouse collectibles and figurines. She was a fan of auto racing, whether watching on television or attending races in person, and she supported the Jacksonville Jaguars. She enjoyed watching crime shows and, in her earlier years, loved baking, camping, and fishing with her family. Above all, Donna adored her family and treasured time spent with her grandchildren. She was also passionate about animals, especially the dogs she loved through the years.

She is survived by her mother, Beverly Betts. She also leaves behind her son, Jason (Noah Renken) Hale of Carlisle, and her daughter, Jenny Nokes of Norwalk. Donna’s family also includes her grandsons, Colby Dale Gannon and Tyler (Nicole) Nokes, and her great-grandsons, Fox, Hawke, and Forrest Gannon. She is also survived by her sister, Roberta (Walt) Kissel, and by her brothers Steven Betts, Doug (Esther) Betts, Denny (Lorna) Betts, and Larry Betts; her dear friend Karen Love, along with many loved ones who shared in her life and memories.

Donna was preceded in death by her father, Robert Betts, and by her husband, Bradley Hale.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Monday, August 31, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Ernst Funeral Home, 80 NE Dartmoor Drive, Waukee, Iowa 50263.

Donna will be remembered for her love of family, her caring heart, her enjoyment of simple pleasures, and the warmth she brought to those around her.

Memorials may be directed to the family where they will be used for a yet to be determined animal charity.