Donna Rae PATANIA

PATANIA, Donna Rae On February 10, 1942 a singular spirit came to Earth in the form of a baby girl named "Donna" by Andrew and Azelia Jeney. This spirit grew throughout her early years, enduring multiple surgeries at the Shriners Hospital for Children because of a troublesome hip joint. These events made this spirited girl more determined to overcome life's obstacles. Her journey took her through Tucson High School and an early marriage that brought forth three lively boys, Randy, Larry and Mark Leon. But it seemed to Donna that life had more to be explored. I, too, had married at an early age and Susan, Nancy and Sam joyfully arrived. And I, too, found myself looking for "something". We met, Donna and I, and 45 years flew by. We worked together, rode on top of a boxcar in the Andes, spent days in the Indian country of Arizona and New Mexico, in dugout canoes on the rivers of New Guinea, exploring Indonesia and Turkey, traveling the length of Italy, crossing Canada by train, passing through the Panama Canal, and marveling at the majesty of Antarctica. After each adventure we were happy to return to our home of 43 years, a Queen Ann Victorian in Armory Park. Our children beautifully blended as a family and enjoyed coming together at this home. But the years began to diminish this spirit and multiple surgeries took their toll. Now we are facing life without her. She left to explore another dimension on February 19, 2017. Good-bye my beautiful Spirit, I miss you. Your life's companion, Frank. To say farewell, our children express the following. From Randy: You can tell a lot about a person by their determination, ability to overcome adversity and love unconditionally, their compassion and their adventurous love of travel. You were the "wind beneath my wings". I will miss you and always love you. From Larry: It is hard to believe it is true; I lost a Mother and a best friend who was there for me no matter what. Her sense of humor, guidance, support, advice, our secret handshake and special bond will be deeply missed. Mom, I LOVE YOU so much and my life has been forever altered by your passing. From Mark: We are fortunate Mom provided us an example of perseverance and love. She overcame much to travel the world with her soul mate. She gave of herself greatly to her family. Her life touched people halfway around the world whose lives she changed for the better. She journeys further, beyond memories well cherished, and love fully expressed. An open house to celebrate Donna's life will be held Saturday, March 11 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., email donnamemorial@yahoo.com for directions.