PIGNATIELLO, Donna M.
Age 48, of Tipp City, passed away Wednesday Dec. 15, due to cardiac arrest as a complication from her 5-year battle with cancer. She was born on Nov. 16, 1962 in Cleveland, OH and was a third grade teacher at St. Christopher in Vandalia. She is survived by her husband, Mike, and their 3 children, Katie-21, Kyle-18, and Ryan-15. Donna is also survived by her parents, Anthony and Loretta Casasanta from North Canton, OH, her brother, David from Kimbolton OH, and her sister, Dianne from Canton OH. Donna graduated from Canton Central Catholic H.S. in 1980 and from the Univ. of Dayton in 1984 in Music Education. At UD, she was a member of the Sigma Alpha Iota Fraternity, the Pride of Dayton Marching Band, and Fr. Burns’ 12:45 Mass Choir, where she and Mike met. She taught at several schools during the past 26 years, with the last 12 years being at St. Chris. Donna devoted her life to her family, faith, and students, teaching right up to her passing. She and Mike celebrated their 25th anniversary in July with an Alaskan Cruise. They received a marriage blessing on Dec. 11, at a surprise gathering for Donna, where she was happily with her immediate family, closest friends, nearly her entire bridal party, and support team. She was very thankful to have been a part of the St. Chris faculty, unable to thank them enough for all the love they showed her. She cherished her students over all the years. The family will greet friends at St. Christopher Church from 4-8 p.m. on Monday Dec. 20, with a funeral Mass at 11 a.m. Tuesday Dec. 21, officiated by Rev Francis Keferl with Rev. Norbert Burns assisting. Following cremation, interment will be at Maple Hill Cemetery in Tipp City. Arrangements by FRINGS AND BAYLIFF FUNERAL HOME 327 W. Main St. Tipp City, Ohio 45371. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Bellarmine Univ. Relay For Life www.relayforlife.org/Bellarmine and/or the Elementary School Fitness Challenge, PO Box 197, Tipp City, OH 45371.
