Donna Marie Tonella

1935 - 2018

Donna Marie Tonella

March 30, 1935 - November 19, 2018

Born on March 30, 1935, Donna Marie (Meagher) Tonella was

adopted and raised by her grandparents, Charles and Hannah Meagher. Donna attended East Seattle Elementary School, Franklin High School and graduated from Bellevue High School in 1952. A lifelong Husky fan, Donna earned a BA in Journalism from the University of Washington in 1956, where she was a member of Alpha Phi Sorority, W-Key, Totem Club, and Theta Sigma Phi (later Women in Communications). Donna married Ubaldo 'Baldy' Tonella in July 1957 and with him raised a daughter (Anne) and a son (Paul) in Bellevue, WA. She worked for many years in the administrative office of the Bellevue School District, retiring in 1997. Besides her employment, Donna volunteered for a variety of organizations, including: Girl Scouts of America, Alpha Phi Sorority, PTA, the Friends of the Covington Library and served as a Covington Arts Commissioner. She was also a gifted seamstress and donated her talents to and served as an officer of the Pierce County Clothing & Textile Advisors. Donna was proud of her Irish ancestry and could trace her lineage back to the American Revolution as a descendent of William Dawes, one of the "Paul Revere" riders. She had a great sense of humor that delighted all who knew her. She had tireless energy and enthusiasm that made doing even the simplest things fun.

Donna is survived by her beloved husband, Ubaldo Tonella, her daughter Anne (husband Ken), son Paul (wife Scotti), and her four adored grandchildren, Karli, Chris, Nathan, and Lia.

At Donna's request there will be no services. Remembrances in her name may be made to the Friends of the Covington Library 27100 164th Avenue SE Covington, WA 98042.