Donna M. Carstensen, 90 of Lake Crystal, Minnesota, formerly of Sioux City, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at a long-term care facility. Funeral Services will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church in Sioux City, Iowa with Reverend Ezra Grabau as Clergy. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery in Merrill, Iowa. Visitation, will be on Friday, January 30th from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel with a Prayer Service beginning Friday evening at 7:00 p.m.

Donna grew up in rural Dakota County, where she began her education in Allen, Nebraska, and graduated as valedictorian from Dakota City High School in 1953. Her education continued when she went to Edward's Business School. Donna then dedicated 32 years of her life to Swift Company before retiring at the age of 50.

In June 1957, Donna married the love of her life, Roger Carstensen, at Salem Lutheran Church. Together they built a beautiful family and a life filled with love and laughter.

Donna was an active member of her community, dedicating herself to the Women Transportation Club and being a devoted charter member of Faith Lutheran Church. For 50 years, she served on the Alter Committee, shared her faith as a Sunday school teacher, and played a vital role in the Ladies' Women Missionary Committee (LWMC). Beyond her church activities, she was a joyful participant in various clubs, including the county music association, the golden age club, and the Siouxland Senior Center. Her love for camping shone through as she shared delightful experiences with a group known as the Foresters.

A true lover of life, Donna brought joy to those around her through her interests and hobbies. She adored flowers, traveling, playing cards, especially bridge—and crafting. Her passion extended to being an avid sports fan, passionately cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Sioux City Explorers, and Minnesota Vikings. However, her heart raced the most for NASCAR.

After many cherished years in Sioux City, she found comfort and care with her granddaughter Jessica and her husband Scott in Lake Crystal, Minnesota. Donna's nurturing spirit and devotion to her family were evident throughout her life.

Her legacy now lives on through her son, Gary Carstensen of Sioux City, and her granddaughter, Jessica (Scott) Christnagel of Lake Crystal, along with her sister Julie from Somerville, Texas, brother-in-law Lloyd (Glenda) Carstensen, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Donna preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Opal; her beloved husband, Roger; her brother, Virgil Roberts; her sister, Ruth Harpster; her brother-in-law, Burdell Kruse; and her parents-in-law, Felix and Lucille. Their love and memories will continue to inspire and guide her family and friends.

Donna M. Carstensen leaves behind not only her family and friends but also a legacy of kindness, love, and unwavering faith. She will be deeply missed, but her bright spirit and loving heart will forever remain in the lives she touched. The family wants to extend a deep thanks to Crystal Seasons of Lake Crystal and moments hospice of Mankato