Donna Meidinger Hirsch, 74, of Miles City, passed away on July 6, 2022, in her home surrounded by family, after a long and courageous battle with Vascular Dementia.
Donna was born on February 29, 1948, to Elmer and Viola Meidinger. The eldest of 6 children, she learned to be responsible at a young age and was considered the “good” child. She attended Kinsey elementary school where she got straight A’s throughout. She was involved in church, 4-H, and later started singing with her siblings at local events and talent shows where they became known as “The Meidinger Sisters.”
She then attended high school at CCDHS, where she was FFA sweetheart, sang in the choir, and was the Go Western Day Queen. Freshman year, she caught the eye of Les Hirsch. They started dating and fell head over heels for each other. She graduated in 1966 and on September 14, 1968, her and Les were married. Four days later, they left for college at MSU Bozeman.
In 1973, they bought a farm along the Broadus highway, where they lived for 14 years. They started their family when daughter Lori was born in January of 1975, and then had daughters Sara in 1977 and Heidi in 1979.
In 1987 they purchased a ranch on the Tongue River Road, south of Miles City, and continued to expand it over the years. They eventually started their own alfalfa feed company, Tri-State Alfalfa Cubes.
Along with working side-by-side with Les on the ranch, Donna spent her time being actively involved in her girls’ many activities and being active in Grace Bible Church. She loved spending time with her parents, siblings, and her in-laws. She also enjoyed taking the family dancing while Les and his sister, Gail, played in the band. She loved to cook, sew, plant flowers and gardens, and organize community events. Her favorites were her Halloween parties and hosting church in her home. She enjoyed working Les’s campaigns for State Senator and was an integral part of his time spent in the legislature. She continued to find immense joy in singing, whether it was in the church choir, helping Les practice a new song for the band, or just humming around the house.
One of Donna’s proudest moments in life, was becoming a grandmother. She could not get enough of her grandsons and was so very proud of each and every one of them. She was a beautiful lady with a beautiful soul who loved her husband and her family immensely and was loved wholeheartedly, every moment of every day.
She is survived by her husband Les, daughters: Lori (Tim) Blaede, Sara Hirsch, Heidi (Curtis) Obie; grandsons: Austin (Emma) Blaede, Cody Blaede, Gage Thompson, Bryce Hirsch; great-granddaughters: Lilah and Millie Blaede; Sisters: Dolores Willson, Carol (Tom) Winchell, Cindy (Garth) Anderson; brother: Chris (Andrea) Meidinger; brothers-in-laws Walter Malone, Wayne (Traci) Hirsch; sisters-in-law: Pansy (Bill) Jones, Diane (John) Jones, Gail (Kyle) Shaw; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents: Elmer and Viola Meidinger; Mother and father-in-law: Ted and Ruth Hirsch; sister: Darlene Malone; and brother-in-law: Rick Willson.
Family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 12, 2022 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Bible Church. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the Custer County Fairgrounds, Grace Bible Church or any local organization.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday July 12, 2022
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Wednesday July 13, 2022
Grace Bible Church
3505 Stower Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday July 12, 2022
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Wednesday July 13, 2022
Grace Bible Church
3505 Stower Street
Miles City, Montana 59301
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Marcy Parks says
Les and family, I am so sorry! My heart goes out to all of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Knowing you will all be together again for eternity is great comfort in the middle of the sadness. Praying for God’s perfect comfort for each of you.
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
Les, Lori, Sarah, Heidi and all the family-
We all knew this was coming, but it still tears at your heart. Donna was everything I wanted to be and then some. Take time to grieve and hold each other up. I know you have many precious memories to share. Mere words cannot express all that I am feeling, but one thing I will always cherish is having Donna as my big sister❤️
Craig and Jerianne Dunnam says
We share your sorrow. I have lost a good friend.
June Opp says
Les,and all of your family,I am so sorry for the passing of your loved one. I worked with Donna many years ago, she was always such a sweet person.Remember she is no longer suffering now in her heavenly home, but will be missed by you all.My prayer for you all is that God will bless and comfort you all during these difficult days and the day’s ahead. June Opp
Rhonda Sanford says
Les and Family, I was so Sad to hear of Donna’s passing.. I never had the chance to really get to know her but I recall how Sweet and Beautiful she was…. Heaven has gained another Angel.. may you all be comforted by her no longer suffering in any way!
Craig and Jerianne Dunnam says
We share your sorrow, I have lost a good friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Curt and Kate Terrett says
So sorry for your loss
Sandy Rabe says
Les and family, I am so sorry to hear about Donna. I pray that you find comfort and peace in the wonderful memories. May God bless you all.
Colleen Hopkins says
So sorry for you loss, Lori. Thoughts and Prayers 🙏
Doug and Colleen
Gail Ivestee says
Sorry to hear about you mother Lori. My prayers go out to you and your family ❤️
Sandi Kohones says
I am so sorry for your loss! Prayers for the family during this hard time.
Mary Ann Stockhill Liles says
Les and family, I am so sorry to learn of Donna’s death. I treasured her as a classmate and friend. My prayers and sympathy go out to you.
Mary Ann Stockhill Liles
Kris Bartlett says
I’m so sorry for your loss Lori and family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you hugs.
Deb Lohman says
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers for all you.
Maureen Larson says
Les and family ~ I am so sorry for your loss. Donna always had that beautiful smile and sweet nature whenever you saw her. Even though it was expected, it never makes it any easier to lose a loved one. God bless you all during this difficult time and in the days to come.
Mary Ann Murray says
Les and all of Donna’s family, I am so sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. Heaven gained an angel. I always enjoyed visiting with her. Precious are the memories that keeps us going. Thinking of you in your time of sorrow. Prayers for all of you.
Diana and Chris Elwood says
Les and Family, Chris and I extend our deepest sympathy for your loss of Donna. May God be with all of you and give you peace and comfort at this time.
Roxie Davis says
So sorry for your loss. Hugs and prayers to all of you.
KAREN AND RAY PELLANT says
I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and hugs.
James Arneson says
I am sorry for your loss. May God comfort you with the best of memories now and always.
Marilyn & Cliff Schantz says
Les and family, we are so sorry for your loss. Donna was a very neat lady. We will be thinking about you all.
God Bless
Nora Drew says
My heart is breaking for your family.
Such a wonderful lady.
Hugs and prayers for you all.
Audrey Haumschild and Greg Blind says
Les and family so sorry for your loss. Donna was very sweet and wonderful lady . Hugs and prayers 🙏❤ are with you all.
Ed and Cindy Hulse says
So sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. I always enjoyed seeing her.
Brian and Gins Cooleu says
She was a very special lady and will be missed. It’s such a blessing to know that she is with our Lord her savior.
Donna/Larry French says
I am so sorry Les. RIP Donna.
Bill Rantala and Carol Hirsch says
Les and Family, Bill and I are so very sorry for your loss. Donna will be greatly missed. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Natilie Freitas says
Lots of Love & Aloha to your family during these times. In my thoughts & prayers. Aloha, Nat
Glo says
Awe this breaks my heart, such a beautiful person gone sooner than anyone wanted….Yet the big guy above knew it was time for her battles to come to an end. It makes my heart full to know that he has restored all that was taken from her. Love to all of Donna’s family.
Carol Shook Clepper says
Les – so sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. Too many of our class are gone. I have lots of fond high school memories of both of you. Prayers for all your family
Julie and Butch Krutzfeldt says
Donna was a beautiful woman and a loyal wife and mother…our deepest sympathy for your loss.
Deb Bartholomew and Family says
Les, Lori, Sarah, Heidi and all the Families
So very sorry for the loss of your Beautiful Donna. Heaven has gained a Great, Beautiful Angel! Always remember “When A Loved One Becomes A Memory That Memory Becomes A Treasure”. She will always be a Treasure in your hearts and never forgotten. Treasure your precious memories as they will get you difficult days ahead. Hugs, Prayers and Love to All!!
Phyllis Landa says
So sorry for your loss Les ! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time !!
Charles lei says
All my best to you and your family.
Leonard and Shelly Murphy says
LES, LORI, SARA, HEIDI AND YOUR FAMILIES, YOUR WIFE AND MOM AND GRANDMA WILL BE MISSED. OUR PRAYERS AND HEARTS GO OUT TO YOU ALL. SENDING HUGS AND LOVE. MAY YOUR MEMORIES CARRY YOU ALL THROUGH THIS TIME AND THE FUTURE. SHE WAS AN ANGEL ON EARTH AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO. IT WAS A LOT OF FUN AS COUSINS GROWING UP.. love you the Murphy family
Donna Brien says
Sorry to hear of your mom’s passing Lori. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Arlen Alice h Miller says
TO THE HIrsch Family, Sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
GARY AND PAT HELM AND FFAMILY. says
LES AND FAMLY SORRY TO HEqr about donna SHE WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON OUR PRAYERS GO OUT TO ALL OF YOU.
Dick Fletcher says
Sad to hear of the loss of your mother Lori. Prayerful thoughts and blessings to you and all the Hirsch Family at this difficult time.
Cousin Bruce & Sherry Meidinger says
Donna was very special. God’ strength and peace.
Donna & James Stevenson and family says
Sorry to hear about your mom Lori. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Judy Nerud says
Les and family,
We are so sorry to hear about Donna. Pleas accept out deepest condolences.
Chuck Hubing family
Bob Flotkoetter says
Cindy, so sorry to hear of the loss of your sister, she was a wonderful lady.
Kelli Rooney says
Mr Hirsh and family, l’m so sorry for your loss. Donna was a beautiful lady and I’m honored to have gotten to know you and say HI to her when I saw you in Steadmans. Donna always had a little smile. May God bless you and give you the comfort that you will see her again in Heaven one day. Thoughts and prayers.
Joe and Cathi Peila says
Donna was a gracious classy lady who always had a smile. Blessings of peace and comfort for all the family as you spend time honoring her life.
Wayne and Shelley Perkins says
From before I went to high school, Donna and Les were always an example to me of how to live a grace filled life. Our prayers to all of Donna’s family.
Myron & Mary Beth Kibler says
Dear Les and your family,
Donna was one of the classiest ladies I know. She was gracious, kind and always had a wonderful smile on her face. She sure was talented too and her love for you Les and her family were evident to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. Moon Creek lost another good one, but Heaven gained an Angel. We plan to be with you on Wednesday to pay our respects and celebrate her life as well as support you during this hard time.
Bill & Betty Johnson says
My wife and I are truly sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. We remember how great it was to work with her on the county elections
Board.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Les and the family.
Bill Huntzicker says
Although I’ve moved away and hadn’t seen them in years, I remember Donna and Les as two of the sweetest people you’ll ever meet. I’m so sorry for your loss. May the memories be good company.
Andrita Harris says
So sorry for your loss Les , Lori and Family. My thoughts and PRAYERS are with you. Donna will be missed. You lost Beautiful young lady.
PRAYERS to you all.
Mark Fix says
So sorry to hear about Donna. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Debi Cottom Rapstad says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
KAY WELLS says
Les and family,
We are so sorry to hear about Donna. She was always such a classy lady and always had a beautiful smile for everyone. We always enjoyed visiting with Donna and it was easy to see how much she loved her family and friends. May all your wonderful memories help you through the hard days ahead. We will be thinking of you all and you will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Maryann Mahoney McDaniel says
So sad to hear about Your loss, Les and family. Such a sweet friend.
Bill and Sharon Oftedal says
Les and Family,
In so many of these tributes, Donna is described as “beautiful” and “classy”. She was all that and so much more. Our hearts go out to all of you at this difficult time.
Cindy A Stanton says
Lori & families, my sincerest condolences. Your mom was such a wonderful person. I pray for you al to have comfort & peace during this dark time of mourning. You’re in my thoughts & prayers
Tom & Carla Herzog says
Les, girls and family,
I so fondly remember Donna. From the Kircher and 4H years, to the tender care you gave this beautiful woman in the latter years.
She seemed to be such a support mechanism to all the joys, successes and undoubtedly, challenges that life brought. We are out of state, so unable to be a part of her life celebration, but our prayers go with you. What a precious hope to know when we see her next, it will be in Christ’s presence, with perfection abounding.
Scott Jens and Sue Jens, and family. says
Les, and your wonderful family, it is with love in our hearts, when we have to say goodbye to a cherished wife, mother, and friend. Donna was all three, we are sending our deepest condolences and prayers out to you at this time, she is with the angels looking down, and smiling like she has done so many times before.
Teresa Geib Bacon says
To the Hirsch Family, my deepest Condolences and my Prayers are with you all. Donna was so nice to me in HS, one of my fav people.
Gary and Jimi Lou Woodard says
Les and family….We are saddened to hear of Donnas passing and understand the past few years have been so
difficult for all of you.
We have many happy memories of both Donna and Les from high school years and a little later as neighbors and good friends. What a perfect couple they were and they shared their love with everyone. Heaven definitely gained a beautiful angel and her memory will keep everyone smiling.
Our sincere condolences to all
Sandy McFarland-Hays says
Les and Family, Sending prayers and condolences. Donna was a special lady. May the love of those around you, help you through the days ahead.
Willis & Ardi Bartholomay says
Les and family, we are so sorry for your loss.
Lori Donnelly says
Heidi, Les, Lori, and Sara, and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Donna’s passing. My condolences to you all. Remember that she is now in a much better place, smiling down on her beautiful family. May God comfort you today and always as you mourn the loss of your beautiful mother, wife, sister, aunt, and grandmother. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time.
Karen Losing says
Les and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss of Donna. She was a lovely lady and was a great singer. She’s the only one I know that had “perfect pitch.” Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
Lynn Holland says
Les and family,
Sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to all.
Lynn Holland
Fran & Stan Oswald says
Sincere condolences to the entire Hirsch family.
Helen Johnsen Deines says
So sorry to hear this, one of my first memories of ‘town’ was the Meidinger girls visiting their grandparents in the tiny house on north Sewell across from my grandparents home!