Obituary of Donna Marie Austen

AUSTEN, Donna - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Donna Austen on March 5th in St Catharines Ontario at the age of 78 having lived a full life filled with friends and family. A beloved mother to Ed Shlakat (Denise); Debra Ouellette (Martin) and Tara Lawrence (Jamie). Cherished Nana to Alicia, Cole, Stephanie, Kelsey and Bennett. Devoted sister to Leota (Vic), Bill (Mary-Lou), Johnny, and their families. She will be fondly remembered by her sisters-in-law by heart, Dawn and Jean and her Aunt Margaret who she shares a special bond in birth and friendship. Donna is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Leota; her brothers Doug and Gerry and her brother-in-law Vic Kinghan. Donna's true joy was her family and friends. She held a strong bond with her grandchildren, nieces and nephews through social media. She held the title of Mother, Nana (nana mom mom), Sister and Aunt with pride. Other titles she may be remembered by are "the IGA Lady" for her many years working at the south end IGA; a "Golden Girl" shared by 4 of her lifelong friends, "Social Director" for her role in planning events; holidays and bus trips at her building and can be counted on to show up in a decorative hat, jewelry or sweater. She was  an avid card and dart player, who was famous for being the team player who could double out the game with her bulls eye. Ironically she was not driven by the competitive nature of the games, but social spirit of the play and gathering. Her own saying “Who has more fun than people” makes complete sense to our friends and family. Her legacy is to make memories and be happy. Donna was a social woman who loved a gathering with a love for music and dancing.  It was not uncommon for her to sneak out in her youth to attend a dance competition (which she had to hide her winnings since she would get caught) or to see Elvis in concert.  She loved her Blue Jays, hockey and was always ready to side with her son as a fan of the Leafs and rib her daughter-in-law and son-in law about the Boston Bruins.  Although she was starting to sway when her four year old grandson started to cheer for the Bruins "Boo-ya!" Donna had a passion for her community and always wanted to give back.  She was a women who placed people in front of things.  She was a champion in her ability and desire to help others. Cremation has taken place. The family will receive visitors at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton Street, St. Catharines on Sunday, March 10th from 2:30p.m. - 5p.m. The family will share Words of Rememberance for Donna at 4p.m. in the visitation room.  Memorial donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or Gillian's Place would be appreciated by the family.