Donna J Gorton

Donna Jean Gorton, 76, passed away Wednesday, June 17, 2026. She was born July 13, 1949 to Donald and Agnes (Bifulco) Dolan in Monticello, NY.

Donna met Milan through a mutual friend and the rest is history. In the early years of their marriage of 55 years, they embraced the uncertainties and adventures of military life. Frequent moves, new communities, and the challenges of military service required flexibility, resilience, and faith. Together, they navigated those years with grace, perseverance, and unwavering love.

As they built their life together, they grew not only as a couple but as individuals, supporting one another through each season of life. Their marriage was marked by mutual respect, deep friendship, and a steadfast commitment to one another. Through every challenge and triumph, they remained devoted partners, creating a loving home and a strong foundation for their family.

She graduated from Wells College in 1971 with a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics. Driven by a lifelong passion for learning and problem-solving, she continued her studies and earned a Master's degree from Eastern Kentucky University in 1977. Her dedication to mathematics and education led her to pursue doctoral studies in Applied Mathematics. She completed all requirements for her doctorate except for her dissertation, achieving a level of academic accomplishment that reflected her intellect, perseverance, and commitment to her field.

Her love of teaching brought her to Wichita, Kansas, in 1978 for what was intended to be a five-year stay. Instead, Wichita became her home for the next 48 years.

She began teaching mathematics at Wichita State University and later taught at Friends University. She concluded her distinguished career at Butler Community College, where she served for 22 years as a lead mathematics instructor. She built a remarkable career dedicated to education and the success of her students.

She was an avid traveler and hiker who enjoyed exploring new places and experiencing the beauty of the world around her. A gifted cross-stitcher, she possessed remarkable creativity and patience, and she eagerly tried her hand at nearly every form of needlework and embroidery she encountered.

Nothing brought her greater joy than spending time with family and friends. She especially treasured family gatherings playing games with scrabble being a favorite. She also cherished her friendships and looked forward to her girls' trips, creating memories and strengthening bonds that lasted a lifetime.

She was a devoted member of Calvary for 42 years, where she found spiritual nourishment, meaningful friendships, and countless opportunities to serve others. Deeply committed to her church community, she faithfully served as Financial Secretary for more than 25 years, carrying out her responsibilities with dedication, integrity, and care.

She was passionate about helping others grow in their faith and played an active role in Christian education. Over the years, she founded two Sunday school classes, creating welcoming communities where people could learn, connect, and deepen their relationships with God and one another. She also served as a devoted Stephen Minister for 20 years, offering compassionate care, encouragement, and a listening ear to those experiencing life's challenges.

She was a uniquely talented and groundbreaking individual in her field. She was thoughtful, nonjudgmental, and remarkably patient, always willing to listen, encourage, and support others without hesitation.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Donna is survived by her husband of 55 years, Milan Gorton; children, Christopher (Megan) Gorton, and Rosanne (Shane) Skelley; grandchildren, Kaitlyn (Jon), Josh (Whitney), Nichole, (Daniel), Brayson, Braylie, Emily (Sergio), Alison (Charlie), Abigal; 8 great-grandchildren.

Service: 10am, Saturday, June 26, 2026, at Calvary United Methodist Church, 2525 N Rock Rd, Wichita, KS 67226

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association , P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011