It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of our beloved Donna U. Ozern, who left us peacefully on December 22, 2025, at her home in Weare, NH, surrounded by her loving family.
Donna was born in Rochester, NY on October 13, 1941, to William and Lina (Pirwitz) Unterborn. She earned her Master’s Degree in Optical Engineering from the Rochester Institute of Technology and went on to build a distinguished career as an optical engineer. Throughout her career, she worked for Xerox and Lockeed Sanders (later BAE), where she made numerous contributions, including many patents, before her well-deserved retirement.
Donna's life was enriched by her love for family and the simple pleasures she enjoyed. She cherished spending time with her family, watching classic television and game shows, shopping, playing cards, and gardening. Her sharp mind, quiet strength, and deep love for those closest to her were qualities that endeared her to all who knew her.
She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughters, Elizabeth Hoffman (Scott) of Weare, NH, and Renee Gonzalez (Antonio) of San Antonio, TX; her sister Elaine Merkle; and her grandchildren: Krystle Hoffman Linnane (Joshua), Tony Gonzalez (Angela), Amelia Gonzalez (Anthony), Sarah Gonzalez (Matt), Jake Hoffman (Justine), Joshua Hoffman (Jessica), Lilliana Gonzalez, Edward Gonzalez, and Rebecca Gonzalez Gagnon (Jeffrey). Donna was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Tiny Tony, Sofia Gonzalez, Jaxson Gagnon, McKenna Linnane, Thomas Hoffman, Riley Linnane, and Eli, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, her son Ronald Ozern, and her sister Bonnie Savidge.
In accordance with Donna's wishes, funeral services will be private, held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to a charity of one's choice.
Donna's memory will forever live on in our hearts.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1799 Elm St, Manchester, NH 03104

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more