Donna Lee Russ Zick

In Loving Memory of Donna Lee Russ Zick

Date of Birth: 12/28/1932

Date of Passing: 10/05/2025

Early Life and Family

Donna Lee Russ Zick, beloved daughter of Nella and Burt Russ, was born on December 28, 1932. She spent her childhood in San Diego and graduated from Point Loma High School in 1950. Donna married her husband, Gordon Zick, in 1951, during the time she was earning her Associate of Arts degree and completing her diploma as a Registered Nurse.

Donna is survived by her children: Mona Oyos-Johnson, Lisa Zick-Mariteragi, and Kevin Zick. She was predeceased by her daughter, Anita Zick. She was a grandmother to Essence Sage Oyos, Chaunsa Serene Oyos, Cameron Zick, and Teare Mariteragi. Donna was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren: Lucas and Chiara Oyos-Haynes, Jared and Cecilia Cron, Charlotte Oyos Long, Martin Atanui, and William Kaheke Mariteragi-Nofziger.

A Life Dedicated to Community

After moving to Ramona, California, Donna and Gordon established the El Rancho Pharmacy. In 1967, they purchased the Ramona Rexall Pharmacy and continued to grow their business until retirement. Throughout her years in Ramona, Donna became deeply involved in the community, participating in organizations such as the rodeo in the 1960s, Kiwanis, The Flying Samaritans, Marriage Encounter, and 4-H leadership, later focusing on Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Donna served as a board member for the Ramona Food and Clothes Closet. She participated in the H.E.A.R.T Mural Project, Cannon Training and Development, and Ramona Parades. She became director of the new Emergency Services Committee in the '80's, was a founding member of Ramona Jr. Fair, and a member of the Ramona Chamber of Commerce, where she held the position of president for one year. She was also honored as Woman of the Year, honored by getting to throw the first pitch at a Padres game. While raising her four children, Donna generously fostered several others and hosted numerous international youth exchange students (IFYE program). Her commitment to the Ramona community continued well into her eighties.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Donna's life will be held at the Ramona Town Hall on Sunday, December 28, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, on what would have been her 93rd birthday. Donations in her memory may be made to any of the community organizations Donna supported.