Donna Rose (Stolarski) Leonardo, 78, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2025, surrounded by her beloved family. Born in Chicago, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Rose (Spychalski) Stolarski.
Donna pursued nursing studies in Rochester, Minnesota, where she met Eduardo Leonardo, her beloved "honeycito." After a whirlwind romance, they married and embarked on a remarkable life’s journey together, beginning with their move to Peru in 1967. At just 21 years old and speaking no Spanish, Donna arrived in Lima, Peru, quickly embracing her adopted country and Eduardo’s family with her characteristically fierce passion and loyalty.
During their 23 years in Peru, Donna and Eduardo built a vibrant life filled with friends, family, adventure, and travel while raising their four sons.
Donna was an active member of the American School of Lima PTA, coached little league baseball, and dedicated herself to nursing and charitable work for children in Peru. In 1989, the family began a new chapter when they relocated to Somerset, Massachusetts, where Donna's energy and passion for service continued as a CCD teacher, youth leader, and "Nurse Donna" in Eduardo's pediatric practice.
Family was the center of Donna's world. She loved nothing more than her role as grandmother, famous for her "Camp Gramma" summer gatherings. She treasured traveling with Eduardo, her sons, and later with her grandchildren. Those who knew Donna experienced her boundless energy and tremendous generosity. She would not hesitate to jump in the car to travel to help her friends and family. She opened her home for lively get-togethers and longer-term guests. She loved a long evening walk, a competitive game of Yahtzee, staying connected by phone and Facebook, and celebrating and sharing both Polish and Peruvian traditions. Her determination and unwavering conviction were hallmarks of her character, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Donna was predeceased by her husband Eduardo Leonardo in 2016 and her brother Jack Stolarski. She is survived by her sister Barbara Marek; her four sons and their wives—David and Elizabeth, Tony and Carrie, Patrick and Barb, and Daniel and Cristel; and her eight beloved grandchildren—Tomás, Olivia, Dora (husband Andre), Vanessa, Nicolas, Marco, Luca, and Luna.
Donna's spirited presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, adventure, and generosity will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Donna's wake will be Tuesday, March 25th from 9-11 a.m. at Tazzini Funeral Home, 22 Locust Street in Springfield, preceding a noon Funeral Mass at St. Michael's Parish in East Longmeadow. Her burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to https://www.VillaLaPazFoundation.org , an organization close to Donna's heart.
Please visit www.TazziniFuneralHome.com for condolences.
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