Donna Lee Mayer

While many people believe our lives begin upon our birth, Donna’s life did not fully begin until the early spring of 1974 when she became a Mom to Yvonne Lee. Sadly, Yvonne passed away later that year. But Donna knew her purpose in life was to be a Mother, and an incredible Mother she would become.

A short few years later, in February 1978, she gave birth to her next pride-and-joy, Bruce Lee Joseph Mayer. And in April 1981, she welcomed Rene Leo William Mayer into their lives. A few months after Rene’s birth, she began a new chapter by moving to Edmonton, becoming the most devoted single mom.

Donna’s world revolved around her boys. She scrimped and saved every penny, ensuring that their Christmas and Birthdays were memorable. Anything these boys needed, and most everything they wanted, she figured out how to afford to them. Upon arriving in Edmonton, she supported her children by living on government assistance, but taking every opportunity to better herself so eventually she would not have to rely on such. She enrolled into college on her own, and later obtained a full-time job, which she spent 20 years at before retiring. While that is a prideful moment for many, Donna’s greatest joy was her boys. She raised them strictly, instilling an amazing work ethic, generous hearts, and compassion in both, resulting in Bruce and Rene growing up to be great men. Anybody who spoke to her about her sons knew the humble pride she felt knowing how well they grew up to be. Her favourite moments in life involved the boys gently teasing her, they would often joke that they each were her favourite son, Donna always hoped that they knew that in fact that they were right that they were each her favourite. They would pick playfully at her gullibility, and she relished in listening to their day. She looked forward to their daily phone calls, their joking nature either with her or about each other, and their unconditional love of their family. She particularly enjoyed hearing stories of how other people loved them as much as she did.

Donna welcomed her two daughters-in-law Kari and Winnie, with an open heart and arms wide open. She was so proud her sons found two great women to look after her sons everyday, keeping them safe and loved. Donna worried over them frequently but knew to her last moment that everybody was looking after each other. This knowledge made her heart soar.

Donna also took great pride in knowing and loving her grandson, Phoenix. This young man made her laugh and she was constantly asking about him, ensuring he was achieving the life he deserves. She was a very proud Grandma.

Anybody that had the opportunity to meet Donna knew her light, her generosity, and her dedication to her family. She never wanted to inconvenience anybody and would give her very last dollar if someone needed it. She was a protector and guide for her family, right from childhood with her siblings. Donna is predeceased by her brother Richard, her daughter Yvonne, and her parents Rose and George. Those that remain to grieve the loss of a shining star are her sons, Bruce and Rene; her daughters-in-law, Kari and Winnie; her grandson, Phoenix; her siblings Shirley and Kasey (Janice); her nieces and nephews, Marty, Wendy, Janelle, Kendra; and a significant number of wonderful friends.

At Donna’s request there will be no service, cremation entrusted to Memories Funeral Home.

Donna was a big supporter of charitable organizations, especially those relating to animal care. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to ARTS Senior Animal Rescue or CaliCan Rescue Foundation.