University News

Former Military Science HRA Dies

June 13, 2007

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MACOMB, IL - - Donna Konkler, a U.S. Army civilian human resource assistant for Western Illinois University's military science department for 25 years, died at her home in Fandon, IL on June 10. She was 60.

"Donna Konkler was an extraordinary person who positively impacted the lives of WIU students for 25 years," said retired Lt. Col. Mick Cumbie, who was Western's 11th and longest-serving professor and chair of military science (July 2001-August 2006) and currently is the development officer. "Despite the physical strain caused by her illness and her medical treatments, Donna made every attempt to keep her long battle with cancer transparent to the students. She was one of the most courageous people I've ever known."

She started with Western's ROTC Bulldog Battalion in 1981, under the command of Col. LeRoy Twilley; served nine professors of military science (PMI); and worked with hundreds of student cadets who became U.S. Army officers until her retirement in November 2006.

Konkler was a member of Macomb's St. Paul Catholic Church, where she taught Sunday school, was a lector and a RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) sponsor. She was an active member and volunteer for the Reach for Recovery Program and an annual participant in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure for Cancer. Konkler also had served as the Bethel Township clerk and treasurer.

She is survived by her husband, James; her son, James (Sarah) of Colchester; her daughter, Wendy (Lonnie) Bartlett of Colchester; five grandchildren; 10 brothers and sisters; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. June 13 at St. Paul Catholic Church; burial is at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Colchester.

Memorials may be made to the Colchester Rescue Squad, the McDonough District Hospital Hospice, American Cancer Society or St. Paul Catholic Church.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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