LaDonna "Donna" Herman

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of LaDonna Taplin Herman, who left this world on June 26, 2026, at the age of 88. LaDonna, affectionately known as Donna, passed peacefully at Chi Hospital in Bismarck, ND, surrounded by the love of her cherished family.

Born on May 30, 1938, in Bismarck, ND, Donna was a beacon of light from the very beginning. She was the beloved daughter of Ralph and Marjory Taplin of Wilton, ND, and grew up with an unbreakable bond with her sister, Lou Hruby. The two sisters were inseparable, sharing countless joyful memories throughout their lives.

Donna's life was a testament to love, family, and community. She married the love of her life, John Herman, with whom she adopted and raised two wonderful children. Together, they embarked on numerous adventures, traveling the world and spending serene moments camping with friends. They were active members of the American Legion and other fraternal order clubs, generously donating their time to better their community.

Education was important to Donna, and she graduated from Wilton High School before moving to Bismarck, where she and John built a loving home. After working at the MVD, Donna devoted herself to raising her family and serving her community through various charitable activities. Her nurturing nature extended beyond her immediate family as she fostered multiple handicapped young women, offering them a safe and caring environment.

Donna's family was her greatest joy. She is survived by her dear sister Lou Hruby, brother John Gust, her loving children Brenda and John Kalbfleisch, and John and Sandy Herman, as well as her treasured grandchildren Cody & Kelsi Kalbfleisch and Hunter Kalbfleisch & Jason Cortez. Her legacy continues with her great-grandchildren, Liam Cortez and Kenna Kalbfleisch, along with many special nieces, nephews, and cousins who held a warm place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents Ralph and Marjory Taplin, her devoted husband John Herman, brother-in-law Don Hruby, dear nephews Jaime & Dan Hruby, and her long-time companion Roy Barth. We take comfort in imagining them reunited in heaven, sharing laughter and joy together.

Donna's life will be celebrated with a viewing and memorial at Bismarck Funeral Home on June 29, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Church of Corpus Christi in Bismarck, ND, on June 30, 2026, at 10:00 AM, followed by a reception. Her cremation and burial will take place on Wednesday, July 1, at 10:00 AM at Sunset Cemetery.  To view the livestream, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCymx4atEFI

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to local charities supporting community services, reflecting Donna's lifelong commitment to helping others.

Donna's spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched. She was a guiding light, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Her laughter, wisdom, and love will be dearly missed but forever remembered.