Donna Canova

Our beautiful mother and grandmother slipped away peacefully on Friday, January 17, 2025.

Donna was born February 11, 1937, in Warren, Ohio. She was the oldest of four children born to Oliver Donald McClellan and Thelma Louise McCracken.

In 1946, the McClellan family left the land of frigid winters, relocating to sunny Southern California, where Donna would later meet the love of her life, Norman Ray Canova. The two were wed September 10, 1955, and their union was blessed with five wonderful children. On May 22, 1970, the family was sealed in the Los Angeles Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Donna was a devoted wife, supporting her husband through his multiple decades in law enforcement. She was also a dedicated and attentive mother, encouraging her children in their individual interests and endeavors.

Donna devoted hours upon hours to quilting, creating exquisite machine and hand sewn designs. Additionally, she crocheted dozens of beautiful afghans for grandchildren, great grandchildren, and friends. Truly, a legacy of love. Donna thrived on getting her hands dirty in the garden, loved having a big dog to answer the door with her, and enjoyed even the simple pleasure of watching plants thrive on her windowsills. She was the epitome of positivity, always looking for the good in others and in difficult situations.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Don and Thelma, two brothers, Bob and Denny, her husband, Ray, and her son-in-law, Mark Kemp. She is survived by her five children: Don (Susan), Jim (Jamie), Jerry (Debbie), Julie Kemp and Becky (Brett) Davis. She is also survived by her only sister, Kathi Mihaley, twenty grandchildren and fifty-six great grandchildren.

We will miss her grit, endless love, constant encouragement and genuine kindness.

Graveside Services will be held Monday, January 27, 2025 ~ 11:00 a.m. at The Herriman City Cemetery, 12465 South Pioneer Street (6000 W. 12300 So.) , Herriman, Utah