Obituary of Donna Marie Gage
STILLWATER –
Donna Marie Gage of Stillwater, a cherished mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away after a lengthy courageous battle with breast cancer at the age of 62, on October 4, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and forever memories.
Donna is survived by her beloved son, Justin Macfarlane, who was the center of her life. She was a cherished sister to Jane Smodell, Karen (Ken) Gage-Ellsworth, and Robert (Shannon) Gage.
She also leaves behind her adored nieces and nephews, Lisa (George) LeClaire, Tonya (Clyde) DeCota, Danielle (Dave) Cowin, and Renee (Don) Price, as well as her great-nieces and nephews, Nathan (Rachelle) LeClaire, Trevor Cowin, Miranda and Mya Price, Colton and Skylar LeClaire. And her best friends, Christa Waldron and Susan Cukrovany. Each family member held a special place in her heart and she treasured every moment spent with them. Donna is predeceased by her parents James and Mary Gage. As well as her Faithful Companion Zuko.
Professionally, Donna was the epitome of hard work and dedication. She took great pride in her self-employed cleaning service, which she ran with the same love and care she gave to her family. Her work ethic and commitment to excellence were also evident in her time at Manheim Albany, where she was not only a valued employee, but a friend to many as well. She instilled the "Donna Standard" in us all while keeping house or doing any sort of chore.
Beyond her professional life, Donna's heart truly belonged to her family and friends. She was always the first to suggest a get-together and was the last to leave. She always had new, exciting, and hysterical games to play ensuring everyone around her was having as much fun as she was. No one ever felt left out of the fun when she was around. When she wasn’t singing along to her favorite oldies, she would be enjoying her time outside tending to her plants and gardening, always happy to spend a sunny day outdoors. Her laughter was a familiar and comforting sound that will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.
Donna's love for her family was paralleled only by her love for life itself. She was always ready for a good time. Known affectionately as "Donna Clown," she was the heart and soul of every party, bringing laughter and light wherever she went. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she was always the first to offer help to anyone in need. She made her home feel welcome and loving to anyone and everyone who happened to visit. Her selflessness was a beautiful shining light of hope and resilience which will forever inspire us. Donna is like the sun, as you can always depend on the sun to shine and bring happiness.
Donna's loving nature was the foundation upon which countless cherished memories were built. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel special, loved, and like family. Her absence will be felt deeply by all. Donna's passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her laughter will echo in the stories shared, her generosity will continue to inspire acts of kindness, and her love will remain a guiding light for her loved ones, with remembrance of her genuine personality and brave heart.
As we say goodbye to Donna Marie Gage, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, a heart given freely, and a legacy of love that will shine forever. She was a gift to us all, reminding us to cherish every moment and to always lead with love.
In her memory, let us hold our loved ones a little tighter, laugh a little louder, and continue to spread the joy that Donna embodied every day of her life. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will be treasured always.
As we bid farewell to Donna let us carry forward the love and laughter she brought into our lives. A Celebration of Life will be held at The Stillwater Area Community Center (located at: 19 Palmer Street, Stillwater, NY 12170) on Sunday, October 20th from 1-4PM. All are welcome to join us to honor her legacy.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Stillwater Area Community Center, an organization Donna loved and supported for many years.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with Donna’s family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com
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