Donna (Papian) Runge

Donna (Papian) Runge, 80, of Des Moines died Thursday, October 23, 2025, after a short but courageous fight with cancer. She was a life-long Iowan, who was born and raised on the Eastside of Des Moines, then raised her own family on the Southside.

She graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy and went on to become a surgical nurse. After taking time off to raise her two children, she returned to work as a teacher at Wakonda Pre-K.

Her life was one of service, to her family and friends, her patients and to the hundreds of children she got ready for kindergarten and beyond. Donna will be remembered for her generosity, loyalty and love. Especially when it came to her husband of 51 years, Gary Runge.

She was the daughter of first-generation Italians, and took their strong family traditions to heart, passing them down to her children. She also proudly excelled at the tradition of making red-sauce and meatballs, often cited as some of the best on the Southside.

Donna is survived by her children, daughter, Nicole (Jed) and their son, Will; son, Erik (Stephanie) and their children, Sophie, Lucy, and Elliot; brother, James Papian (Ande), son Chris (Katherine) and their children, David and Junior; brother, Steve Papian (Kate) and their children, Anthony (Amanda) and Nora (Max); as well as many relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gary and her sister, Sharon Papian.

The family will greet friends on Monday, November 3, 2025 beginning at 10:00 a.m. with the Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 15 Indianola Road in Des Moines.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to EveryStep Kavanaugh House or the Food Bank of Iowa in loving memory of Donna.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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