Donna Sobieck

Donna Jean Sobieck was a vibrant heart who brought light into every room she entered. Honest, kind, loving, caring, and supportive-these qualities defined Donna to all who knew her. Loving family and friends readily doled out praises for her genial nature, steadfast spirit, and contagious enthusiasm for life's wonders. And with a twinkle in her eye, she was always prepared for a good laugh, often sparked by her husband's loving jokes.
Born on July 27, 1934, in Sylvania, Ohio, Donna entered the world as the third child in the Felt family, behind her older siblings, Lorene and Donald. Her father, Samuel Felt, worked tirelessly as an electrician for the Sylvania Pipeline, while her mother, Norma (nee Nickerson) Felt, saw to the home. When Donna was still an infant, her family moved to Wayne, Michigan. She was warmed by a nurturing household, during a time marked by the nation's perseverance through the Great Depression.
Donna's childhood was full of laughter and love amid ordinary family routines. She joined the Girl Scouts, where she honed a knack for organization and high spirits within community circles. Her familial role lent itself to cherished memories-especially playing with her first nephew, Bob Weston, who brought joy to her teenage years. Donna's social tapestry included best friend Nancy Wolfe and many enriching adventures together, from simple joys to trips to Greenfield Village. Before graduating in 1952 from Wayne Memorial High School, she was an active member of the Future Homemakers of America, Young Women's Christian Association, and Girl's Athletic Association. One of her favorite school memories was a Senior Class trip aboard the S.S. North American steamship, which embraced Mackinac Island's enchanting port-of-call.
The baseline of her professional life started as a bookkeeper at the National Bank of Detroit (NBD). Fate and finance intertwined as she crossed paths with Donald Sobieck, who was in the regional banking department and could visit all the branches. Sparks quickly flew, and by 1959 they were married. This union blessed them with two children, Bonnie and Keith, who would become the unequivocal pride and joy of her life. Donna's happiest day was undeniably her wedding day-her purest dream manifest in vibrant hues of love.
Throughout her 12 years at NBD, Donna was not only a steadfast professional but an avid go-getter with her colleagues, participating enthusiastically in the National Bank Girls Bowling Club. However, her maternal instincts prevailed when she decided to leave her role to dedicate herself to the upbringing of her children. She embraced her role as a homemaker, being a Cub Scout Den Mother for Keith and a guiding force that Bonnie and Keith would always look up to. Any leisure time was skillfully braided with hobbies like needlework, crafting, painting ceramic Holiday Villages, reading Romance & Mystery novels, and solving Word Search puzzles.
As the years bloomed and Don retired, they embarked on a thrilling time of extensive travel, exploring 38 U.S. states and 40 countries and territories. These travels really invigorated Donna, whether it was cruises to the Caribbean, explorations in Europe, or adventures down under in Australia and New Zealand. She also enjoyed yearly summer trips to Kalkaska to visit her sister's family, and trips in the summer or fall to the Upper Peninsula every year since 1980. She also had time to revel in simple pleasures closer to home: casino trips, Bingo nights, dinner out, movies, and day trips nearby.
Donna's interests translated into various collectibles – from cookbooks and salt & pepper shakers to souvenir spoons, thimbles, wall magnets, and playing cards. She'd hardly miss an episode of Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, always looking to learn something new. Honest and earnest, Donna etched lasting impressions on everyone around her. Above all, she championed kindness and honesty, values she lived by each day and imbibed into her dear children, asserting decidedly that treating others well was an ethos worth treasuring.
In later years, Donna took pride in her membership within several recreational bowling leagues and contributions to the Wayne Civitans, reflecting her deep-seated spirit of contribution and sociability. As a mother who nourished beyond capacity and a woman with an abundant reservoir of joy for life–she rejoiced being surrounded by those with a parallel sense of humor, just like Don, keeping the atmosphere light, effervescent, and brimming with laughter.
Sadly, Donna Jean Sobieck passed away on June 15, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that spans continents, generations, and hearts. Her children, Bonnie and Keith, carry forward her torch, ensuring her unwavering light continues to guide paths even beyond. Although an undeniable loss envelops them and all who knew Donna, memories embolden their spirits, reminding them to live thoughtfully, laugh freely, and cherish the resonance of kind gestures. Ultimately, her greatest accomplishments remain–a testament to a life marvelously lived: her devoted, successful children who continue to honor the code of love and kindness their dearest mother so gently imparted.
Donna Jean Sobieck of Livonia passed away June 15, 2024 at the age of 89. She was born July 27, 1934 in Sylvania, Ohio to Samuel and Norma Felt. Beloved wife of the late Donald. Loving mother of Bonnie Sobieck and Keith Sobieck. Also survived by one niece and two nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and her siblings Lorene Weston and Donald Felt. Visitation Friday, June 21, 2024 from 3-8 pm at Neely-Turowski Funeral Home, 30200 Five Mile Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48154. Additional visitation Saturday, June 22, 2024 from 10 am until time of funeral service at 11 am at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Glen Eden Memorial Park, Livonia, Michigan.