Joan Mary Donahoe

Joan Mary Donahoe — Joni to her friends and family — passed away on March 14, 2025 at the age of 66. Preceded in death by her father John William Donahoe, mother Joan Mary Donahoe (nee Bofenkamp), and brother Kevin, Joni is survived by her brothers Steven (Terry), John (Nancy), David, Mark (Kathryn), Michael (Tina), and Patrick, her two children, Conor (Maria) and Caitlin Walline (Michael Gibbs), and the many friends she considered family.

The only daughter of John and Joan, Joni was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota on July 26, 1958. Nicknamed “Bones” by her brothers and friends due to her slight stature, her personality and vibrant energy more than compensated. She spent her childhood surrounded by her brothers and always on the go, from summer trips to Lake Okoboji to skiing in Colorado. She went on to graduate from Utah State University with a degree in special education.

Joni married Jeffrey Walline in 1982 and they moved to Idaho to pursue teaching and their mutual passion for the outdoors, including mountain biking, skiing, whitewater rafting and camping. In 1986, Joni and Jeff had their son, Conor, and then in 1989, their daughter, Caitlin.

Joni chose to make her life in Idaho and Utah, living amidst the mountains and people she loved. She spent much of her time giving back to the many communities of people who helped her and enhanced her life in so many ways. For years she was involved in the Special Olympics, coaching students she taught and learning so many valuable lessons in return. After living there some time herself, Joni spent years volunteering with the Haven, a women’s and family shelter in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and the Women’s Retreat House in Ogden, Utah. Throughout her life, Joni had the unique ability to relate deeply to every person she interacted with, no matter what their situation in life. Her community of friends in recovery offered her not only camaraderie and support, but also helped shape her purpose and commitment to others who have experienced hardships. Unfailing kindness and generosity defined her life and now her legacy.

A celebration of Joni’s life will be held at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 North Fairfield Road, Layton, Utah, on Saturday April 5, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. There will be a visitation hour Saturday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. immediately beforehand. Please feel free to attend with memories and stories of Joni to share if you wish.

Should you wish to make a donation in her name, please consider the Women’s Retreat House (https://womensretreathouse.com/) and the Haven Family Shelter (https://ifrescuemission.org/the-family-shelter/).