Peacefully in the home she loved so much. Donna passed away on Monday, May 19, 2025 at the age of 86. As she always liked to tell us, she had a wonderful life and felt blessed to be surrounded by so much love.
Donna was the loving wife of Ron for 55 years, until his passing in 2013. She was the beloved Mom of Rhonda Lakanen (Brian) and David (Melissa Linquist). She adored, and was adored by her grandchildren, Raili (Alex), Greg (Andrea), Mackenzie (Nick), Tiana (Hamoudi) and Taner. She took great delight in her great-grandsons, William and Finley and they sure loved their Didi! "Popsicles at breakfast time, boys?" "Sure! Why not?! We're at Didi's!"
Donna was predeceased by her parents, Mac and Grace Smale, and her brothers Bob and Jim. She is survived by her dear baby brother John (Patti), Bob's wife, Carla and her loving nieces and nephews.
Donna was well-known for her fantastic sense of humor, her kindness, her generosity and her butter tarts! She also had great fun beating both her kids at scrabble 90% of the time.
Her grandchildren enjoyed her fun loving nature and we all looked forward to finding out what games she dreamed up for our annual Christmas gathering. She was always available with a listening ear, a word of advice and unconditional love and support. Best Mom ever!
She loved her friends, near and far, and appreciated their companionship as she became more housebound, missing her lunches with the "Bell girls."
She was a huge fan of her telephone, T.V. (Jeopardy, anyone?) and IPad where she loved watching videos of her favourite little guys.
Special thanks to Pat and Ivy and Jackie for checking in on Mom regularly and sharing lots of laugh.
Donna truly appreciates the kindness of many in her community: Lynn, who made sure her hair always looked good even as the hair appointments turned into housecalls; Paolo, Maija and Andrea at the Metro Pharmacy for taking such good care of her medication needs over the years; her neighbour Pat, who faithfully looked after her garbage and recycling; Randy, who did a wonderful job with snow removal and lawn maintenance; Michelle at RBC Bank for her patience, support and counsel; the many dedicated staff members at the March of Dimes especially Cathy, Katie, Mandy, Christina; Hannah at the Community Paramedicine Program. Special gratitude for Dr. Heather O'Brien, and Earth Angel.
The world will be a little less bright without Mom in it, but she will live in our hearts forever. We have so many wonderful memories and tons of "Didi" stories, to add to our "Papa" stories to help us laugh through our tears.
She and Dad can now watch over us all, together again. We sure hope there's chocolate in Heaven!
At Mom's request, there will be a private family celebration this summer. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations (made payable by cheque or online) to any Charity of your Choice would be greatly appreciated by the family. Please visit www.arthurfuneralhome.com obituaries section to leave a message of condolence as a keepsake for the family. And in Mom's honour, hug your loved ones and enjoy your favorite dessert.
We love you.
Mom wanted us to add this message:
I could not stay another day to laugh, to love, to work or play.
A friendship shared,
A laugh, a kiss, oh yes these things I sure will miss.
My life has been full, I've had so much.
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.
Let memories of the time we shared bring a smile to your face.
My life was happier because of you.
Love,
Donna