Donna L. Welka, 81, of Summit Township, PA, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in Erie, PA on August 24, 1944. George and Donna married on March 5, 1962. Together they owned and operated Welka’s Disposal, alongside George’s brother, Harry and his wife, Susan. Donna enjoyed a variety of hobbies throughout her life, including fishing, boating and crocheting.
She is survived by her devoted daughters, Carinn (Jason) Papucci and Lisa McCommons; her cherished grandchildren, Bethenie and Emily and her great-grandson, Carter and son-in-law, Gary McKniff. Donna is further survived by her siblings: Mike (Rose Ann) Hess, Diane Grizanti and Robert (Carol) Hess.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George; her daughter, Cyndy McKniff; her sisters, Barbara and Roseanne; her brother, Peter Jr.; her brother-in-law, Charles Grizanti and her parents, Peter Sr. and Francis Hess.
A private family service will be held at Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services Inc., Wintergreen, 2532 Norcross Rd., Erie, PA. Burial will follow in Wintergreen Gorge Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Perry Highway Hose Company, 8281 Oliver Rd., Erie, PA 16509 with “Memorial for Donna L. Welka” noted.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2532 Norcross Rd, Erie, PA 16510
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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