Leah M. Donisi

Leah M. “Max” (Wells) Donisi, passed away peacefully Sunday, January 5, 2025 at Oakwood Care Center in Clear Lake. 

Memorial Services will be 2 p.m. Friday, March 7, 2025 at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St. NE, Mason City. She will be laid to rest at Rock Falls Cemetery. 

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. 

Leah Maxine or more well known as “Max”, was born September 9, 1928 in Olney, Ill., the daughter of Herbert and Leona M. (Tolliver) Wells. She grew up in Illinois, spending much of her time with her maternal grandparents, attending Olney High School. Soon after she entered the workforce, working in various fields before finding her niche as a locksmith. She worked for her brother for many years at Central Lock and Key until her retirement in the late 1990’s. 

On September 18, 1989, Max married Sam Donisi. 

Max was a woman of many talents and passions, leaving a mark in everything she did. A master locksmith, she took immense pride in her craft, building a career that spanned decades. At home, Max found peace and inspiration on her cherished acreage in Rock Falls, where she loved watching wildlife from her window. An avid reader and lifelong learner, she had a particular interest in healthy living and enjoyed exploring new ideas. Max had a creative soul, evident in her talent for painting, crafting and decorating her home with warmth and care. She was a gifted storyteller and cherished time spent with family, whether gathered around a meal she had lovingly prepared or enjoying lively get-togethers.

Surviving are her children, Sue Frauli of Garland, Tex., Rod (Sandy) Kimpling of Fertile, Bobbi (Craig) Lewin of Ft. Collins, Col., and Ken Kimpling of Ankeny; grandchildren, Terri (Roger) McCord, Lori (Tony) Trulson, Tim (Jenice) Hess, Nichole (Chris) Hadley, Ben Hess, Loren (Austin) Gilliam; many beloved great-grandchildren; step-children, David Donisi, Mark Donisi, Kimm Donisi, Kip Donisi, and Tami (Bob Eisner) Donisi; as well as many extended family members. 

Preceding her in death are her parents; husband; brother, Robert Wells; a granddaughter, Christina Kimpling; and step daughter, Tracey Donisi.

Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel.