Donna Pendergast

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Donna A Pendergast, 75, of Williston VT., after a long & courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. Her final days were spent surrounded by her family, friends, and amazing caregivers from the Residence at Quarry Hill, as well as her personal caregivers. She was born Donna Ada Wagar on September 28, 1941 to Francis V. (Mesick ) & Lyle Wagar in Ghent, NY where she attended public schools in Chatham. There she sang in the chorus which led her to meeting the love of her life, Neil Pendergast, her husband and best friend of 45 years. They were married on September 10, 1966 in Hudson, NY, and a year later moved to Bolton, VT, where they had and raised two children. Donna enjoyed the outdoors and being with her husband and son occasionally on their turkey or deer hunting excursions. She and Neil loved playing golf together or with the friends they had as members of the Blush Hill Country Club for many years. She and Neil spent many winters playing golf and enjoying each other's company in the warmth of the Florida sun. She loved playing the piano and "entertaining" guests in her home, which she took great pride in and was quite skilled at decorating. She was often dubbed "the hostess with the mostest" by her many friends she'd made after the move from NY to Bolton, especially by one group of friends fondly known as the "Blush Hill Gang". She loved life, she loved to dance, and it wasn't uncommon for her to be the life of the party; but, what she loved more than anything in this world were her two children. When either of their names were mentioned or they were in the same space, her eyes lit up like there was magic in the air, and let's not forget she was a lover of animals, especially Cooper and Quincy who she loved dearly. Donna is survived her three sisters; Juanita M. Mabey, Lyla F. Shanahan, & Sandra A. Kratt, all of New York; her daughter Mary Lou & son Michael Pendergast, both of Colchester, and many nieces & nephews. She is predeceased by her husband Neil and her brother Peter A. Wager. The family would like to express their overwhelming gratitude to the nurses and staff of the Residence at Quarry Hill. Their expertise, nurturing and caring throughout these last few months are greatly appreciated. And a VERY special thanks to Mackenzie, Mimi, & Liz for your continued support for the past couple of years. Your caring, patience, and sense of humor were a great comfort to Mom and to us as well, and we love you dearly for it. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, Jan.4, 2016 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in So. Burlington at 11a.m with burial to follow in Resurrection Park Cemetery. Calling hours will be Tuesday, Jan.3, from 4-7 p.m. at the Ready Funeral Home South Chapel, 261 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, VT.