Donna Lee Ryman

Donna Lee Riel-Lechner-Ryman, 79, of Aberdeen, SD, passed away peacefully at her home on March 29, 2026.

Graveside Services will be held at Riverside Cemetery in Aberdeen on April 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Pastor Jeff Whillock from Bethlehem Lutheran Church will officiate.

Schriver’s Memorial Mortuary & Crematory, 414 5th Ave NW, is honored to serve Donna’s family. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at www.schrivermemorial.com.

Donna was born on November 30, 1946, to Harley and Pearl (Melcher) Riel in Aberdeen, SD, where she grew up and later graduated from Central High School.

Donna devoted her life to caring for others. She spent many years working as a caregiver in nursing homes and at the South Dakota State School, where she eventually retired. Her compassion, patience, and dedication made a lasting impact on those she cared for and worked alongside.

She cherished time spent with her family and found great joy in crafting, especially crocheting and creating projects with plastic canvas—hobbies that reflected her creativity and gentle spirit.

She is survived by her children: Janet (Dana) Heathman, James (Jennifer) Lechner, Jeffery Lechner, and Jerry Lechner; her brothers Rueben (Samantha) Riel and Paul (Linda) Riel; and her sister Nora Riel. Donna also leaves behind 14 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish her memory.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, 2 husbands, three sisters, one brother, one daughter, June, and one son, John.

Donna will be lovingly remembered for her caring heart, quiet strength, and the love she shared with family and those whose lives she touched. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.