John Owen Donham

John Owen Donham passed away on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at the age of 78 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. John was born in 1944 in Indiana and grew up in the small town of Hillsboro.

He is survived by his wife, Sonja; children, Lisa Donham, Joely (Scott) Colburn, Charles (Morgan) Donham, and Mackenzee (Edward) Donham-Stradling; seven grandchildren, Jasper Johnson, Dixie Turner, Bailey and Avery Donham, and Taylor, Tanner, and Tyler Colburn; and twin sisters Annette (Larry) Hutchison and Janette (Jay) Norris. John loved his wife, children, and grandchildren deeply and was known by family and friends for his kindness and generosity. John was married to his high school sweetheart for fifty-nine years.

John grew up playing basketball and watching his favorite Indiana Hoosiers and Butler Bulldogs. He graduated with a bachelor's degree from Indiana State University and a master's degree from Purdue University. He went on to pass the CPA Exam in Florida and specialized in governmental accounting. John provided guidance to Tribal leadership for many years and was a champion of self-governance by Tribal entities. In 2016, John retired, and his children now carry on his legacy and his passion for assisting Tribal governments and nonprofit entities.

John loved to travel, especially after his daughter Mackenzee was born. They traveled to many places around the world and learned about many different cultures.

John loved animals, especially dogs. Ruby, his Irish Wolfhound, was always by his side. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes your contribution to the Albuquerque Animal Humane Center at bit.ly/AHNM_Donate or to your favorite local animal rescue organization.

A Service will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 5:00-7:00 p.m., at FRENCH-Wyoming. The Service will also be streamed at bit.ly/JohnDonham for those who would like to pay their respects and celebrate John's life.