Donna Irene Ruffing

Donna Irene Ruffing, 74, of Lusk, passed away March 31, 2020, at Cheyenne Regional Hospital after having dealt with numerous health issues.

Donna was born Dec. 27, 1945, in Lusk to Albert A. Ruffing and Gertrude M. (Wilson) Ruffing
She attended school in Lusk, graduating from Niobrara County High School in 1964, after which she attended the University of Wyoming and then Denver Business College.

While in Denver, she met and married Jay Cotton and the couple moved to Las Vegas, Nev., with his three sons, Mike, Casey and Tim. While there, Donna was employed at Levitz Law Offices. Later the two divorced, and Donna moved back to Laramie where she worked for the University.

After Albert passed away in 1982, Donna quit her job at the University and moved back to Lusk to help her mother on the ranch. While working on the ranch Donna was active in the community and was elected a Niobrara County Commissioner. One of her proudest accomplishments was being elected President of the Wyoming County Commissioners Association. After Gertie passed away, Donna leased out the ranch and moved into town.

During her years back in Niobrara County, Donna held several different bookkeeping positions, her final place of employment being the Director of the Niobrara County Senior Center, where she worked until the time of her death.

Donna was preceded in death by her father, mother and nephew Brian Ruffing. She is survived by her brother Robert Ruffing and sister-in-law Judy, niece Lori Holloman and husband Lon, great-nephew Bryce Holloman, great-niece Meghan Holloman, and great-niece Amanda Ruffing.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Niobrara County Senior Center, Wyoming Suicide Prevention, or the charity of your choice.

Private burial has been held. Due to the Covid-19 Virus, a memorial service will follow at a later date.

Pier Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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