The Spoon River Valley community is reeling after a popular high school student died as the result of a UTV accident over the weekend.
Faith Olivia Donsbach, 16, of Maquon, died Sunday when the side-by-side vehicle she was riding in collided with a deer in rural Knox County. Another teen was transported by Life Flight to OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
In a message sent to Spoon River Valley parents on Monday, Superintendent Chris Janssen said, “Our heartfelt sympathy and condolences go out to the family during this time of unbelievable sadness. The Spoon River Valley School District is committed to doing everything we can to help our students with the grieving and healing process.”
A crisis counseling team was at the schools to assist students and staff.
Janssen went on to say, “This loss will affect everyone in our school family and in the Spoon River Valley Community. Students may have a difficult time dealing with the loss, and we encourage you to talk with your child.”
Obituary: Faith Olivia Donsbach: July 28, 2006 – April 9, 2023
According to her obituary, Faith Donsbach was born July 28, 2006, in Peoria, the daughter of Tonya Sue (Braten) and James Paul Donsbach.
She was currently a junior at Spoon River Valley High School, where she was on the student council, served as class secretary and was active in the Drama Club. As an athlete, Faith played softball for the Lady Xtreme Softball team.
Her obituary noted, “She was Daddy’s girl and her Mama’s world. Faith loved life and could always find humor in any situation. She was stubborn and sassy but would always help a friend in need. Her infectious smile will last forever.”
Donsbach had recently begun working in dietary at the Knox County Nursing Home.
Faith is survived by her parents, Jim and Tonya of Maquon; two brothers, Mark Donsbach of Avon and Paul Donsbach of Abingdon. She is also survived by grandparents, Sharon Braton and Larry Burnett of Maquon and the Late Jack and Claire Braten of Maquon; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She also leaves special friends, Marlee and Noah Hedges; best buddies, Chesney “Chuck” Secrist, Caylin Nelson, Corbin Phillips, and her faithful dog, Jacko.
Visitation for Faith Donsbach will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Graveside services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Maquon Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Faith’s memory to Xtreme Softball or Spoon River Valley Junior Class.
