Of Peters Township, age 74, passed after a four-year battle with cancer on Thursday, February 25, 2021.
Wife of Tom Lauritzen; mother of Megan (Nick) Dolman of Bethel Park and John McShane of East End; stepmother of Jill (Brad) Zimanek of Alabama, Jodi Amoroso of McCandless Township and Greg Lauritzen of Beaver Falls; grandmother of Ayla, Anton, Kyle, Brock, Ella and Freddie; sister of Kitty Redington of Ohio, Carol Fox of Meadville, PA and the late Patti Koziar and Susie Ruffley. Donna had a full, blessed life. She taught for more than 30 years in the Mt. Lebanon School District. She was a member of the Brentwood Presbyterian Church, where she started a luncheon fundraiser for a church in Malawi, raising thousands of dollars. Donna loved traveling, bird watching, and her family. Visitation will be held privately at the John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227. If you would like to attend virtually, please call the funeral home for details and the Zoom ID. If desired, family suggests contributions to Brentwood Presbyterian Church,3725 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15227 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memorials Processing, Memphis, TN 38105.
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March 06, 2021
Amy and Bill Streit
We were so happy to share time at "Cancer Camp" with Donna and Tom. What a happy and wonderful person she was! We extend our deepest sympathy and prayers to the Lauritzen family. She truly lit up a room!
March 06, 2021
Kevin Happe
I really admired Donna and her kindness. She was caring and sweet in a way that seemed so effortless. Even though I was not always the ideal guest as a teenager, she always welcomed me with a smile. Very sad to hear the news, condolences to John, Meg, Tom and all of your family
March 02, 2021
Jane Hutton
I loved Donna....I worked at Mt.Leb. School District....with her....she was one of my favorite teachers....as a kind, loving, caring, giving person....I believe a real saint in our day....such love !!!!! Everyone who knew her will totally miss her and believe she has fought a courageous battle and is at peace with The Devine.... God bless Donna....a wonderful woman and great example of God's love with us. Jane Hutton
March 01, 2021
Rebecca Cyr
Meg & family, your mom always opened her home to our whole crew when we wanted a weekend away from campus. She was kind, loving, and warm. We're all so sorry for your loss and thinking of you. Love, Becky, Daryl, Gabby & Moira Cyr
February 28, 2021
Richard P. Cashman
Dear Tom and Family, we are deeply saddened by the news of Donna's passing. Linda brought her into our lives more than 50 years ago and we grew as friends then parents a life long treasure. I think Linda interceded today because I learned of Donna's passing this morning in time for Christine, Colleen and I to make the virtual service. Life at times requires change but the life-long bond formed through friendship never breaks no matter the distance or the absence of personal contact. We will miss you Donna, thank you for being our friend. I know Linda was there to welcome you into heaven. Rest in peace my friend and thanks for the memories. In Sympathy, The Cashman Family.
February 28, 2021
Margaret McElhany
My Deepest Sympathy and prayers for all of Donna's Family. Peg McElhany
February 28, 2021
Kay and Bill Hibbard
So many memories going back to Luther League for Bill and Thiel for me. We loved her like a little sister. We couldn't wait for her to come to Greenville when she delayed college for a year to earn some money (at her Mom's diner, I think). We all tried to stay in touch over the years, but despite good intentions on both sides, it was never as often as we wished. Donna had a career and I worked intermittently and we were both raising families. I saw her and Karen at Bill's Mom's funeral and then at Mrs. Blocher's. Seeing that beautiful, sweet face in the obituary page this morning was a physical and emotional shock. I was in denial about her prognosis, always hoping that she would beat the odds with the support of her strong faith and loving family. I wish we could give all her loved ones a hug. We share in their grief, even thought their journey of coming to grips with her loss will be much more painful. With heartfelt love, Bill and Kay Hibbard
February 28, 2021
Shirley Levandowski
Donna You have been a special person to me. You have a blessed heart and soul. I have be a better person since i have meet you. May the Lord be with your family and comfort them. Another angel just went to heaven, I really enjoyed during the Malawi luncheon with you, You were always kind and respected to my family. I will miss you. Love Shirley A. Levandowski.
February 28, 2021
Sue Burditt
To Donna's family, I first met Donna at Washington School, where we were both teaching many years ago. We often had lunch together and had a common faith. She was a wonderful teacher and friend. Ever Christmas when I made her sugared walnuts, I would think of her. I recent years, we discovered that we had the same oncologist, and unfortunately had something else in common. I will miss her, and I'm so sorry for your loss. Sue Burditt
February 27, 2021
Gloria Dipasquale
A great lady. My thoughts and prayers are with all the family. RIP Aunt Donna
February 27, 2021
Joseph Casato
To Donna's Family & Loved Ones. I am truly saddened to learn that Donna has passed away. We were great friends at South Hills High School. She was Super Cute, Funny, Warm and Just a Great Person. I will always Love knowing Donna. We had many Classes together. Donna always credited Me with getting her through TAS....Trigonometric Analytical Statistics.....but we actually helped each other. The Photo I see here is Pure Donna. 100%. Just as I remember her. Please accept my Deepest & Heartfelt Sympathy. Joe Casato
February 27, 2021
Ginny & Bob Bendis
Your Friendship of 40 years was special. You had such a caring heart for all. We had fun doing the Malawi Lunches for over 15 years. We went through a lot of life experiences both positive & negative together. You gave your heart and soul to the members of Brentwood Presbyterian Church. We have been blessed to have you as our friend. Love, Ginny & Bob Bendis
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