Dona Saforek

Dona Saforek

Iowa City

Dona Saforek, 75, died on December 25, 2023. Dona was bom to Alice (Rothlisberger) and Arden “Cook” Saforek on December 10, 1948 in Savanna, Illinois. She was a 1967 City High graduate and received a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Iowa.

Dona became a Peace Corps Volunteer immediately following college, and spent 2 1/2 years in the South Pacific on an island in Palau, Micronesia. After a short stint teaching elementary school in Kalona, she began teaching English to foreign-bom adults which she enjoyed for over 30 years.

Dona is survived by her cats, Dude, Jazz and Clapton, and many good friends. She remained good friends with her former husband, Gary D. Smith until the time of her death. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Terry. Dona has deeded her body to the University Hospital. There will be no services.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion Post 17 on January 21st at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dona’s name to the Women’s Auxiliary Post 17.