Donna Oleniczak

Hours after celebrating her 86th birthday with her family and in the peace of sleep, Donna Oleniczak went home to God on February 18, 2013. Donna’s story was one of devotion. As one of seven children growing up during the Depression and World War II, she came to know faith and sacrifice in a special way. She left Catholic Central High School before graduating in order to support her mother and siblings. Decades later, she was recognized with an honorary diploma from Catholic Central. She was preceded in death by her husband Donald Oleniczak and three babies that she called her angels. Together they raised six children who survive Donna: Joe (Nancy), Donny (April), Chuck (Sharon), Anne Stoddard (Bob), Andrew (Laurie), and Julie Wilkening (Steven). Having a full house was not just a way of life for Donna—it was a point of pride. She loved taking care of people and insisted that no one ever leave hungry. This made her a natural at being a grandmother to 10 children and a great-grandmother to two. She often recounted praying on her knees, sometimes for hours, throughout the deliveries of her grandchildren… a devotion that continued long after they were born. Donna was also preceded in death by John McGee, whom she married following Donald’s passing. John’s kindness and generosity always held a special space for Donna and lifted her up even years after his passing. Family and friends will celebrate Donna’s life at a visitation on Thursday, February 21 from 2:00 - 4:00 and 6:00 - 8:00 PM with the rosary Prayed at 3:30 PM, at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – 1833 Plainfield NE.. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on February 22 at 11:00 AM St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 224 Carrier NE.. A luncheon will follow, and in Donna’s honor, everyone will be well fed. Memorial gifts are appreciated and can be sent to St. Alphonsus Church. To sign Donna’s guest book and to leave your own memory of her visit her web page at www.lifestorynet.com