Donna L. Steffenhagen

Donna Lynn Steffenhagen, age 73, of Frontenac, died Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Health System in Cannon Falls, MN.

She was born January 12, 1953, in Pasco, Washington, to William and Eleanor (Stansfield) Gauger. Donna graduated from high school in Richland, Washington. Shortly after graduating, she and her family moved to Red Wing, where she began working at the SB Foot Tannery.

On June 30, 1973, Donna married David Steffenhagen. They shared 27 years of marriage before David died on July 10, 2000. After starting their family, Donna began working at Interstate Medical Center in the medical coding division. She continued working in various capacities through the years, eventually working for Mayo Clinic until her retirement a couple of years ago.

Donna loved being outdoors and found great joy in spending time with her horses and gardening. She enjoyed traveling with her sister and cousins, as well as camping and trail riding with her beloved partner, John Gintner. More than anything, Donna treasured her family. She was a loving mother and grandmother, and her grandchildren were a tremendous source of joy and pride. She cherished every opportunity to spend time with them and create memories together.

She is survived by her daughter, Krista (Steve Ciccone) Steffenhagen of Stillwater; son, Paul Steffenhagen of Frontenac; grandchildren, Clark, Myles, Adaline, and Vincent; sister, Pat (Terry) Reglin of Hastings; brother, Dave (Nan) Gauger of Lake Jackson, Texas; significant other, John Gintner of Frontenac, and John’s three children and eight grandchildren, who were also an important part of her life; numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews; and her horse, Ellie Mae and dog, Cody. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Eleanor Gauger; husband, David Steffenhagen; son, Thomas Steffenhagen; sister, Barbara Gauger; brother, Bob Gauger; and nephew, Ben Gauger.

A service is currently being planned, and will be posted as soon as the planning is complete.