Donna Jean Zanke went home to her Lord and Savior on September 18, 2021.
Donna was born in Wheeling, WV on October 8, 1943 to Dominick and Angeline (Cianciola) Zanke. She was a member of the Cathedral of St. Joseph, an active member of the Woman’s Club of Wheeling and The Son’s of Italy. Donna enjoyed attending summer concerts, Red Hats outings and Thursday Music Club. During her life Donna was a home maker, salesperson at Stone and Thomas, worked at the Wheeling Downs and proprietor of Donna Z’s confectionary.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by one sister, Marlene Williamson.
Surviving are her three children Larry Harris (Lisa) of Allison Park, PA, Laura Lee Hickman (Jason) of Caldwell, OH and Don Paul Harris (Tammy) of Boca Raton, FL; one sister Frances Cioffi from Cape Coral, FL; four grandchildren and numerous extended family and friends.
Family and friends will be received Thursday, September 23, 2021 at Altmeyer Funeral Homes, 1400 Eoff Street in Wheeling, WV from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, September 24 at 9:30 am at the Cathedral of St Joseph with Fr. Paul Taylor officiating. Interment will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to Easter Seals of Wheeling, WV 1305 National RD, Wheeling WV or by clicking here.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.altmeyerfuneralhomes.com.
Donna and I have known each other since the first grade. I have fond memories of our grade and high school years. We often would walk to her parents’ store for treats. I would see Donna at our high school reunions. She loved to dance and she and I would be on the dance floor together often. I am sad to see part of my history pass away but I have such good memories of times together.
Frannie and family, I am so sorry to learn of the loss of Donna. We go back to our childhoods, and I loved every minute spent with the Zanke family: picnics every Sunday at Wheeling Park, trips to Kennywood Park, and so much more. I always felt at home with the entire clan. Donna was very special – she will be missed by all.
I have such good memories of Donna because she was a member of the lovely Zanke family. We go back to before our marriages to our teen years. Donna was a lovely person and it was always nice running into her during the years. May the good happy memories of Donna comfort the family and God bless all of you
I just found out about Donna’s passing. I am so very sorry for your loss. Donna was a bright shining star and a great example for all of us. She had a beautiful soul, so full of energy, enthusiasm and compassion. She was a beautiful woman inside, and out and I’m sure she is dancing in heaven as you read this . . .
DP,,,,,YOUR MOM WILL BE DANCING IN HEAVEN,,,,,,AND BE JUST HAPPY AGAIN,,,,,WHAT A GREAT LADY
Donna was a dear sweet lady it was a privilege to have met and enjoy time with in the Thursday Music Club of Wheeling. She added such joy and a special touch to our meetings and to our Club Chorus with her musical instruments and drums. She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
Frannie I’m so sorry for the loss of your sister Donna. She was so nice to me when we were kids. I met her at one of your fabulous birthday parties. I’m thinking of you and send all my sympathies to you and your family.
My memory:
What a wonderful and kind person Donna was. I met her at Dancing at The Ritz. A program for Cancer survivors. She was so friendly and courteous you couldn’t help but like her. She was short in person, but big in heart. Shevolunteered for anything you asked of her. Due to the Covid, I have not seen her for over a year. And I will dearly miss her smile…she will be in my thought and prayers….I’m sure God has welcomed her with open arms…Rest in peace dear friend.
Dear Larry, Laura Lee, Don Paul and families, So sorry to hear of your dear Mother’s passing. She had told me that she was sick, but never said what. Always enjoyed our phone conversations. Donna was a very kind and strong woman. With her love and guidance she was very proud of her children. I have not driven to Wheeling since 2019, but want you to know I will be with you in thoughts and prayers on Friday. Please keep in touch. Love you all, Aunt Betty