Donna M. Lutz

Donna Lutz Obituary
SALEM - Donna Marie Lutz, a cherished educator, devoted family matriarch, and beacon of kindness in her community, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2024, at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio surrounded by her family, listening to Elvis. Born on July 3, 1942, in Salem, Ohio, to the late Jay E. Denny and Wilda (Bricker) Denny, Donna's life was a testament to love, service, and the joy of music.
Donna, known fondly as a loving and thoughtful individual, graduated from Goshen High School (now West Branch) with the class of 1960, and went on to receive her bachelor's degree in education from Mount Union College in 1964. Her passion for teaching and her dedication to her students were evident throughout her career with the West Branch School District, where she served until her retirement in 1988.
On June 16, 1990, Donna married Alvin "Al" Lutz, and together they shared a life filled with love and mutual respect until his passing on June 23, 2022, after 32 years of marriage. Donna's legacy of love continued through her family, which includes her sons, John Mercer and his wife Stacy of Salem, Mike Lutz and his wife Amy of Salineville, Mark Lutz of Canton; daughters, Monica Snyder and her husband Doug of Columbus, and Michelle Stoffer and her husband Chad of Lisbon. She was a proud and doting grandmother to 19 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.
Donna's sister, Patricia Frank, and her husband Paul of Independence, Ohio, along with her sister-in-law, Suzanne Denny of Salem, will fondly remember her gentle spirit and caring nature. She was preceded in death by her brother, Jay A. Denny.
Her faith and love for music were the cornerstones of her life. As an active member of the Damascus Methodist Church, Donna touched the lives of many through her role as choir director and pianist. She instilled the beauty of music in others not only through her work at the church but also by giving piano lessons for many years.
Beyond her musical talents, Donna was known for her unwavering kindness and her willingness to give her time to others. She was a beloved volunteer at the Salem Hospital Gift Shop, where she brightened the days of patients and staff alike.
A true fan of the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Donna's love for Elvis Presley's music was a delightful aspect of her personality, often bringing a smile to the faces of those who knew her well. She also loved gardening, playing words with friends, and playing Bejeweled as well as bowling.
Donna grew up on a dairy farm with her brother and sister milking cows. She knew the value of hard work at a young age. She carried that lesson with her in everything she did. She worked for the Pidgeon family at the Damascus Livestock Auction, the Church Budget and loved driving her "Lutz Bug" Beetle.
Donna Marie Lutz's life was one of love, service, and music. Her kind and thoughtful nature made her a cherished figure in her family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth and generosity that will continue to resonate with all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
As the final notes of her beautiful life's symphony resonate in the hearts of those she leaves behind, we celebrate Donna Marie Lutz for the blessings of her presence and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a guiding light of love and kindness.
Friends and family will be received from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at the Stark Memorial Funeral Home and again from 10:00-10:45 a.m., Thursday June 27, 2024, at Damascus Methodist Church. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at the church, with Pastor Jon Long officiating. Burial will follow at Hope Cemetery in Salem.
Memorial contributions may be made to Damascus Methodist Church, 300 Valley Road, Salem, Ohio 44460, in Donna's name.
If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.
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