Donna M. Petersen
November 21, 1944 – October 26, 2025

Donna M. Petersen, 80, of Sycamore, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at her home.

She was born on November 21, 1944, in Belvidere, Illinois, to Leonard and Mary (Juns) Schramer. Donna was raised in Virgil and Elburn, Illinois, where she developed the strong sense of community, faith, and kindness that guided her throughout her life. She married the love of her life, Howard Petersen, on August 27, 1964, and together they shared over 61 years of marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and partnership in both life and business.

In 1969, Howard and Donna opened Petersens Decorating Center in Sycamore, which they proudly operated until 1985. After selling the business, they spent 18 months traveling the United States—an adventure that reflected their shared spirit and love of life. Upon returning to Sycamore, they started ServiceMaster Fire and Flood Restoration, which they successfully ran until 2005.

During that time, they also opened Country Charm Bed and Breakfast (1987–1999), warmly welcoming more than 3,000 guests into their home. In 1994, Donna and Howard built a small chapel for themselves, and later expanded it. What began as a personal dream became Chapel in the Pines, a beloved wedding venue where over 3,500 couples have since exchanged vows.

Donna and Howard also cherished their winters together in Bradenton, Florida, where they enjoyed sunshine, friendships, and relaxation.

Donna is survived by her husband, Howard; her children, Lori (John) O'Connor and Jeffrey Petersen; her grandchildren, Kellie (Cal) Wagner, Kyle O'Connor, Joseph Petersen, Rose Petersen, and James Petersen; and great-grandchildren Beckham Wagner and Maddox Wagner.

Howard and Donna also opened their home and hearts to many foreign exchange students, including Gabriella (Uruguay), Axel (Iceland), Ann Margrete (Norway), Stine (Denmark), and Mandy (Hong Kong).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Mary Schramer.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at Chapel in the Pines, 15165 Quigley Road, Sycamore, Illinois.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Church of Saint Mary, Sycamore.

Burial will follow at Saints Peter & Paul Cemetery in Virgil, Illinois. After the burial, a luncheon will be held at Chapel in the Pines, Sycamore, Illinois.

To sign the online guest book or leave a message for the family, please visit www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com