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LaDonna Jean Dirks, 84, departed from her earthly adventure to enter her heavenly home on September 28, 2022, at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita, Kan. She was born on May 17, 1938, at Dodge City, Kan., to Louis & Elma (Deines) Dirks.

LaDonna grew up on a farm south of Dodge City and had many fond memories of 4-H and life on the farm. A lifelong learner and educator, LaDonna attended school in rural Richland Valley Elementary school, Dodge City Jr. and Senior High Schools, Texas Lutheran University in Seguin, Texas, where she earned her BA in 1960, and later received her master's in education from Kansas State University in 1986. She spent most of her teaching career at Dodge City elementary schools. LaDonna retired from teaching and moved to Great Bend where she worked as an assistant at Rosewood Services until retirement. LaDonna loved children and cared for several children that consider her their 'adopted grandmother'.

LaDonna was a member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, was involved in women's associations with the church, and served on various committees.

Survivors include many beloved family members. She is preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Ruth (Virgil) Shank.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. A funeral service is scheduled Friday, October 7, 2022, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Mark Lutheran Church, Great Bend, Kan., with Pastor Adam Wutka and Pastor Chris Deines presiding. Inurnment will be Saturday, October 8, 2022, at 2:00 p.m., at Christ the King Cemetery, Dodge City, Kan. Memorials can be made to Oaks Indian Mission or the LaDonna Dirks Memorial Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.