Donna Yonkouski

Donna Mae Yonkouski, aged 87, of N. Ridgeville, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on September 19, 2025. Born on July 30, 1938, in Peoria, Illinois, she was the daughter of William and Adelaide Schlis.Growing up in Peoria with her two siblings, Donna excelled in her studies and extracurricular activities, graduating from the Academy of Our Lady in 1956. During her high school years, she was actively involved in sports such as volleyball and basketball, and participated as a majorette and cheerleader, becoming a cheerleading captain, contributing to various clubs and performances.Donna's journey in bowling began in her teenage years at the St. Boniface basement alley, where she played alongside her mother and sister. Over the years, her passion for sport led her to join various teams, traveling across the states for tournaments.

On January 18, 1958, she married James J. Yonkouski at St. Boniface, now known as St. Ann's, in Peoria, Illinois. Their marriage spanned 63 years, during which they raised five children together. Jim passed away in 2021.

Donna will be fondly remembered for her tireless energy and involvement in various activities. She was a familiar face as a dedicated mother volunteer at her children's schools, actively participated in church-sponsored BINGO events, and had a particular fondness for the thrill of slot machines at the casinos. The Yonkouski kids also have warm memories of her delicious Polish potato dish, Kugelis.

She retired from Berkshire Medical Center in Massachusetts at the age of 76 in 2014 where she worked for 34 years. The following year, Donna and Jim relocated to N. Ridgeville, Ohio.Donna is survived by her children, the 'Five D's' Debra Komar, Diana Yonkouski, Denise Yonkouski, Douglas (Eileen) Yonkouski, Dennis Yonkouski; grandchildren Josef Komar, Jennifer (Brandon) Farnworth-Komar, Rachel Katzoff, Erin Katzoff, Richard Katzoff, Nicholas Vangelos, Christina (Jerry) Krakowski; great grandchildren Ari Yosef Farnworth-Komar, Francis James Krakowski, Theodore Jerome Krakowski and Madelynn Ann Krakowski.Donna is also survived by her sister, Marianne Pfeifer, and her brother, Harold(Hez) Schlis, of Bartonville, Illinois.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Adelaide Schlis.

Donna made countless treasured memories during family vacations in the Ozarks and while visiting her extended family across various states.

Mom/Grandma was a constant source of support, exemplifying her ultimate selflessness through her decision to donate organs via Lifebanc. Her remarkable gift of life will benefit burn victims and cancer patients who have undergone mastectomies.

We will cherish her memory and love her always.