Donna Marleen Brohaugh

Donna Marleen Brohaugh, age 87, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on August 20, 1938, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Donna passionately dedicated her life to education and nurturing the minds of countless students.

After graduating from Patrick Henry High School, she pursued higher education, earning her Bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota and later obtaining her Master’s degree from Washburn University. Her career began in the classroom, where she worked as a teacher before advancing to become a principal for USD 501. During her distinguished career, she made a significant impact while serving at French Middle School, Hudson Elementary, McCarter Elementary, and McEachron Elementary.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Donna was also an entrepreneur, owning her own jewelry business, The Corn Maiden, which showcased a blend of Native American and Asian jewelry pieces. She cherished traveling to discover unique jewels from around the world, which further fueled her passion for creativity. Donna's creativity spanned out further than her custom jewelry pieces. She also enjoyed sewing outfits and stuffed animals, collecting Native American art pieces, and watching her favorite jewelry TV channel. She found joy in playing the piano and traveled extensively, with memorable trips to New Mexico and other international destinations, including Thailand.

Donna's compassion extended beyond her immediate circle, as she was a devoted member of the Straight Spouse Network and the Survivors of Suicide in Topeka and Kansas City, providing support and community for those in need.

She is survived by her beloved son, Josh (Stacy) Brohaugh; her grandchildren, Alex (Megan) Brohaugh, Austin Brohaugh, Alayna (Chad Forrer) Henezler, and Alison Brohaugh; and her great-grandchildren, Kaden Brohaugh, Jaxon Brohaugh, Maia Brohaugh, and Sairen Forrer. She is also survived by her sister, Karen (Dan) Ruberto.

Donna’s memory will be cherished by all who knew her. She is preceded in death by her son, Seth Brohaugh; her parents, Theodore and Beatrice Schiel; her sister, Margot Schiel; and her ex-husband, Nolan Brohaugh. Donna's legacy of love, education, and creativity will continue to resonate through her family and the many lives she touched throughout her lifetime.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, KS 66604. Her family will greet friends and relatives one hour prior to the service. She will be laid to rest at Mount Hope Cemetery in Topeka. In her honor, contributions may be made to the Topeka Public Schools Foundation, P.O. Box 5883, Topeka, KS 66605 or to the Alzheimer's Association, 8001 Conser, Suite 240, Overland Park, KS 66204. 

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