Donna M. Lesko

Donna Mae Lesko, age 72, of Groveport, OH, passed away Monday, October 14, 2024. Donna was born October 1, 1952 in New Haven, CT, to her parents Furman and Annette Campbell. She was a member at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Groveport, OH, where she worked for many years. She also taught at DeVry University. Donna is survived by her husband of 46 years, Joe Lesko; children, Tammy Lesko, Joey Lesko, Michael (Melanie) Lesko, and Jason (Amy) Lesko; 14 grandchildren, Harmony, Cherelle, Mia, Hannah, Naomi, Lena, Abigail, Campbell, Elliott, Phoebe, Elijah, Gianna, Zelie and Francesca; 1 great granddaughter, Lilly; fur-baby grandchildren, Kody and Luke; 7 siblings, Sandra, Bonnie, Furman, Billy, Brian, Julianne, Joseph; numerous nieces, nephews, family members and good friends.
To know Donna Mae is to know what joy is. She loved fiercely, and had a special way of touching people's lives just when they needed it. Whether it was a long talk during afternoon tea, singing songs on the porch, where there was always a sense of peaceful relaxation swinging on the swing, or just a heartfelt, warm hug, Donna Mae was there waiting with open arms. Her zest for life was contagious, and her ability to find joy in the simple, silly things brought a smile to anyone that knew her. She could always be found with coloring books galore and markers for anyone that cared to join her. Gardening, especially on the front porch, always brought peace and relaxation to her.
Donna was married to Joe for nearly 46 years, and were inseparable partners. They navigated life's challenges together, that only helped their love grow stronger with each passing year. Donna and Joe's marriage was a cornerstone of their lives, filled with tears and laughter, countless trips to Connecticut and grandchildren's events, and unwavering support for all of their family. They always lovingly hosted family gatherings and holidays where laughter and shared meals around the dining room table were central to the celebrations.
Donna's faith guided her throughout her whole life - living on the east coast with her siblings as a child, numerous moves throughout the United States with her husband and children in the Air Force, and through the lives of her grandchildren and extended family. Donna's love for the Lord filled her with the Holy Spirit, and gave her full faith in God and in His plans for each of us, regardless of any suffering or pain. Donna poured out Christ's love with all those she encountered, always in gentleness and kindness as she walked through life, always a faithful servant of Jesus Christ.
May we all remember a prayer Donna wrote recently, that perfectly speaks to how she led her life: "Heavenly Father, Thank you for another glorious day. Guide me as I look and listen to see and accept those opportunities when I can serve you in the best way I know to help grow others who seek you out. In Jesus name I pray. Amen."
Visitation will be Friday, October 18, 2024 from 12 p.m. until time of Funeral Mass at 2 p.m. at St. John XXIII Parish, 5170 Winchester Southern Rd. in Canal Winchester, OH, 43110. Arrangements entrusted to the Myers-Woodyard Funeral Home, Groveport, OH.