Donna Gradin Baker

With heavy hearts and immense gratitude for the life she lived, we share the sudden passing of Donna Gradin Baker on February 19, 2025—just days before her 76th birthday. Her loss leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved her.

Donna was born on February 28, 1949, in Kamloops, BC, and raised in Revelstoke, where she built deep and lasting friendships in the tight-knit mountain community she called home. She spent her early years in the house her father built on 7th Street. At 17, she boarded a train to Vancouver to complete Grade 13, and from there, built a life in North Delta, where she raised her cherished family.

Donna is lovingly remembered by her devoted partner, Dave Baker; her daughters, Lora (Sean) Baker Boshoff and Angie (Lee) Baker Dodd; and her beloved grandsons, Ryden, Baylee, Isaac, and Rubens. She was predeceased by her parents, Nora and Swan Gradin, and her granddaughter, Mia Rosalee.

Family was the center of Donna’s world. As a mother, she was fiercely devoted—selfless in her love, steadfast in her support, and tireless in her encouragement. Her daughters were her pride and joy, and she never stopped lifting them up. Her grandsons, fondly known as “her boys,” lit up her life. She poured her whole heart into being their Grandma and took endless joy in watching them grow.

Donna's love extended far beyond her immediate family. She held her lifelong friendships close—especially her treasured “49ers,” a sisterhood of women she’d known for over 70 years. Their bond was one of deep loyalty, laughter, and unconditional love.

She had an incredible gift for making people feel seen and valued, nowhere more evident than in her extraordinary talent for gift-giving. Every present she gave was thoughtful and personal, a reflection of her deep care and attention to detail.

Donna also had a flair for fashion and a signature style that was all her own—bold costume jewelry, bright colours, and playful pieces that matched her vibrant personality. Her style was an extension of her spirit: joyful, expressive, and unmistakably Donna.

Professionally, Donna built a 37-year career she was deeply proud of, serving as a Records Manager with the BC Government and Service Employees’ Union (BCGEU). She loved the work, the people, and the sense of solidarity the role embodied. Many of her colleagues became lifelong friends.

In retirement, Donna fully embraced life. She spent 15 joyful years caring for her grandkids, traveling, playing Keno, dancing to music, and hosting family and friends with her signature warmth. Her home was always open, a gathering place filled with laughter, comfort, and unforgettable memories.

The most iconic part of that home was “the basement”—a beloved hangout filled with memorabilia, music, stories, and connection. Her drum sets were her pride and joy (she played a mean “Wipe Out”), and her walls displayed a proud legacy: photos with artists, celebrities, and the concerts that brought her so much happiness.

Donna had a radiant energy—joyful, magnetic, and full of light. Her kindness was boundless, her laughter contagious, and her presence unforgettable. She had a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome, heard, and deeply loved.

Please join us in celebrating Donna’s beautiful life:

Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM Sunbury Hall – 10409 Dunlop Road, North Delta, BC

In true Donna fashion, we invite you to wear bright, joyful colours as we honour her vibrant spirit and the love she shared so freely.

For those who’ve asked how to support Lora and Angie during this time, contributions toward final expenses are sincerely appreciated. To offer support or share memories, please reach out to them at dentalgirl5@hotmail.com.

Though our hearts are broken, we are endlessly grateful for the gift of Donna’s life. Her love, her strength, and her light will continue to live on in all of us.

Rest easy, Donna. Donsy, Mom, Grandma—You are deeply missed and forever loved. Mwah! xo