RONALD F. DONATELLI

Ronald F. Donatelli, 82, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Friday, Oct. 20, 2017 at St. Luke's Aurora Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Ron was born on Feb. 20, 1935 to Nathan (Nick) and Lorraine (nee Quick) Donatelli in Chicago, IL. Ron graduated from Forman High School and then completed his apprenticeship program at the Washburn Trade School and became a Journeymen Carpenter. He started his own business Donatelli Home Improvements in the early 1960's. He loved this trade and shared his passion with his son Christopher and nephew Michael Korney who both pursued this profession with the values taught to them by Ron. Ron was a proud member of the Chicago Fire Department and was blessed with a second passion where he became a Lieutenant and served for over 35 years until he formally retired. Ron enjoyed sailing, the water, and loved taking trips and cruises with his life partner Elizabeth. Ron was also an avid Chicago Bears fan, gardener, and enjoyed meaningful conversations and debates with the grandchildren. Ron is survived by his life partner and soulmate, Elizabeth Smith; sons, Christopher (Jennifer) and James (Barbara) Donatelli; daughters, Michelle Buzby and Caroline (Roger) Paradiso. Ron was the proud grandfather to Augie and Olivia Buzby, Cameron, Isabella and Luciana Paradiso and Nikolas Donatelli. Through the many years that Ron and Elizabeth (Smith) spent together, Ron developed very close relationships with the Smith family, Barb Rangel, Brian (Virginia) Smith, Jim (Annette) Smith, and Sandy (David) Christman. Ron and Elizabeth shared wonderful memories with her 18 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. A celebration of Ron's life will take place on Saturday, Nov. 11 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 7307 40th Ave. in Kenosha, WI. Visitation with family and friends will take place at 10am followed by a mass at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.