Carol Donahue

December 19, 1957 - January 3, 2026

The family of Carol Ann Donahue announce her passing on January 3, 2026. The name “Carol,” meaning “song of joy,” reflected her spirit, as she embraced life fully.  Though short in stature, she always filled the room with light and laughter and once you met her you had a friend for life.

Born in Waterloo, IA in 1957, Carol graduated from Hoover High School, Des Moines, IA and received a BA in speech and drama, University of Iowa, and earned a Master of Arts, Education, Curriculum and Instruction from California State University, Bakersfield.

Professionally, at Kern High School, Bakersfield, and then at Escondido Charter High School Carol taught English, speech and drama while also mentoring college-bound students.  Her love of writing, drama, and theater then led to wonderful opportunities and lasting friendships throughout her production career at the La Jolla Playhouse, the University of California–San Diego, and finally, The Old Globe Theatre in San Diego.

Carol loved to travel and formed lasting friendships around the world.  She coordinated education and communication workshops in Mexico and Russia, organized fundraising drives for the Baja Orphanage, and devoted her time to supporting environmental organizations.

Carol took great joy in writing about the many adventures in her life, capturing both laughter and challenges in her book: “Carol and Sheila Go To Europe: A Memoir of Self-discovery, Friendship, Family and Loss”.

Carol’s remains will be laid to rest at Resthaven Cemetery West Des Moines. She is preceded in death by parents Lester and Mary Kathleen Donahue, brother Patrick and brother-in-law Steve Yochum. She is survived by siblings: Michael (Patricia), Mary Yochum, Timothy (Elise), and Diane. Her nephews: Christopher (Jennifer) Donahue, Matthew Yochum and niece Hanna Reichler. Her grandnephew and grandniece: Joshua and Zoey Donahue.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the staff and residents of Capitol Hill Senior Living, Salt Lake City for their friendship, kindness, and compassionate care during her time there. Your support and companionship meant so much and brought her great comfort and joy.

A Celebration of Life for Carol will be held in: 

San Deigo, CA on January 19th

    Des Moines, IA to be announced early Spring 2026.

In Loving Memory

I went to Hoover with Carol. She was such a good friend to so many. Because she was “chosen” to take the driving test she put off getting her license forever- I never minded because that meant I could spend more time with her. I can still see her in the passenger seat singing along with the radio to Muskrat Love. While our paths went in different directions, she was always the one who I hoped to see at any reunions. A wonderful soul who touched so many lives. She will be missed.

Terri Johnson Parker

Urbandale, IA

Even though we both attended Hoover High, I met Carol at the University of Iowa. We were both in the University production of "the King and I." That was in 1979 I think! We had fun together in our elaborate costumes and makeup. Carol mentored me through the process of being part of a cast at University. I am sorry to hear she has died, she was a gem.

Nancy Van Hemert Ward

JOHNSTON, IA

We so loved Carol at Capitol Hill. She was the sweetest happiest person ever. She gave great hugs, and she loved to be outside in nature. She came to every choir practice and loved all the musical programs. I'm going to miss Carol every day. She taught me to smile and live every day to the fullest. I'm a better person having Carol in my life. Hugs, Becke Wolf

Becke Wolf

Salt Lake City, Utah

Carol and I became good friends in high school when I ventured into theatre. We were different in so many ways - she was my yin to her yang. We connected, and she was always a voice of reason for me. Carol was an “old soul” reflecting wisdom and kindness always. We roomed together at Simpson College our first semester, which was a time filled with joy and laughter. I regret losing touch with her over the years. Carol’s spirit will continue to live with all who knew and loved her.

Sue Owens

Little Rock, Arkansas

I also went to Hoover high school with Carol. She was always a kind and gentle person always willing to talk to you. At the last class reunion she attended. We had a nice conversation together. Caught up on the old school conversations. She will be missed very dearly rest in peace Carol.

Chris Brandt

Altoona, Iowa

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