Donna Mae Shebelut

Donna Mae Shebelut, age 89, peacefully passed away to her eternal home on Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Born in Fresno, California in 1934 to Dominic and Flora Piacentini. Part of a proud Italian Catholic family, she was the oldest of two daughters. Donna Mae spent her entire life in the Central Valley, except for a short stint in the state of Washington. She attended Fresno State, where she became a member of the Delta Gamma sorority.

Upon graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Donna Mae began a 25 year career in education. First as a biology teacher and then as the Activities Director at Fresno High School. She had a magnetic personality; people were drawn to her and she to them. She truly never met a stranger. In 1989, she and her son, Lance, began a farming business that continues to thrive to this day. Donna Mae loved being involved in the ranches from interacting with the workers in the packing houses to selling her prized fruit at the farmers markets in northern California which she loved doing alongside her 90-year-old mother.

While reflecting on her life, we were reminded of her genuine and authentic spirit. It didn’t take long for an acquaintance to become a friend. Her friends and family knew that if they needed her, she would be there in a moment’s notice. She forged many lifelong friendships within her bridge community and on the golf course, where she was a member over the years at Sunnyside and San Joaquin Country Clubs. Again, if there was a need on a committee, she was happy to jump on board. She loved making a difference in people’s lives.

We will miss her energic personality, funny little songs, humor, and playful mannerisms. Donna Mae had a true zest for life. Her legacy will live on through all of those that loved and adored her.

Donna Mae was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Elise Krause. She leaves behind her loving sister, Vivian McGuinness; devoted son, Lance Shebelut, and wife, Shannon; grandchildren Paul Krause, Jaime Wahlberg (husband Graham), Chad Krause (wife Tjasa), Brayton Shebelut, Ashlyn Buckner (husband DeForest), and Ryan Shebelut. She was also blessed with 10 great grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Fresno, California at 10:30 a.m. Holy Spirit is located at 355 E. Champlain Dr., Fresno, California.

Donations In Donna Mae’s name can be made to Catholic Charities 149 N Fulton St, Fresno, CA 93701.