Donna Martinell

Donna Hintz Martinell, 80, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, entered her Heavenly Home on October 29, 2024. 

Donna was born on June 6, 1944, in Estelline, South Dakota, to Maurice and Hazel (Lenning) Hintz. A graduate of Castlewood High School, Donna began her life’s journey rooted in family, faith, and an enduring love of learning and service.

Donna married Sheldon Moe, and together they had four children. Later, she married her best friend and life partner, Darwin “Marty” Martinell, with whom she had two more children. As part of a military family, Donna traveled extensively, eventually settling in Watertown, South Dakota, where she raised her family. During these years, she attended Watertown Business University and worked in sales, also becoming a familiar face at the Elks Lodge and Senor Max’s, where her warm personality touched many lives.

In the late 1980s, Donna relocated to Sioux Falls, where she built a successful career as a District Sales Manager for a wholesale supplier through Sam’s Club and Walmart. Her passion for education continued throughout her life as she attended Southeast Technical Institute, earning four business degrees. Valued for her hard work and dedication, Donna remained active in sales until her retirement.

Donna embraced life with a spirit of joy and curiosity. She loved dancing, sewing, crocheting, needlework, reading, and “treasure hunting” at thrift stores and garage sales. Her faith in God was her guiding light, which she shared generously with everyone she encountered. Known for her gentle advice, she was always ready to lend a hand, often beginning with her kind phrase, “May I make a suggestion?”

Donna is survived by her children, Lisa Martinell of Sioux Falls, TroyLyn (Kenneth) Joseph of Estelline, Melissa (Guy) Fish of Henry, LaDonna Martinell of Canova, Trisha Martinell of Sioux Falls (special friend Kent Glesne), and Darwin (Amber) Martinell Jr. of Sioux Falls. She also leaves behind a large, loving family of 17 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, as well as her siblings, Karen Paulsen and Arlo (Vicki) Hintz, both of Watertown.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Dennis, and her grandson Victor. Donna’s memory lives on through her family and all who were fortunate to know her. Her legacy of love, faith, and kindness will forever be cherished by those whose lives she touched.