Donna Marie Zelno

It is with deep sadness to announce the passing of Donna Marie Zelno, 64, from Eynon, at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Dickson City due to recent medical complications. Her loving husband and love of her life is Charles A. Zelno.  Devoted to each other and never far apart, they were married for 41 joyous years.

Born in Scranton, she was the beloved daughter to the late Leonard and Joan Budzinski Thomas of Dickson City. Donna was a 1977 graduate of Mid Valley High School and a faithful member of St. Mary’s Czestochowa Church Eynon, Christ the King Parish, Archbald.  Prior to her illness, she was employed as a Paraprofessional for the Valley View Middle School for over 25 years.

Donna leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love, strength and precious moments that will forever echo in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.  She was committed to the students and her unwavering passion for education made her a respected and cherished member of the Valley View School network.  Donna had remarkable work ethic, patience and kindness that touched lives of countless students and colleagues.  She was known for going above and beyond her duties to ensure that the students received the best possible support and guidance which laid the framework for their future.  When not working at school, her passion for life was only surpassed by the love she had for her 3 grandchildren.  She spent countless hours spending valuable time with them while creating great memories.

Surviving in addition to her husband, Charlie are her two sons: Jeff and wife, Jennifer, Holly Springs, NC and Scott and wife, Marisa, Scott Township; three grandchildren, Gabby, Nick, and Lilly Zelno; sisters, Darlene Diehl and husband, Robert, Dickson City; Pauline Willis and husband, George, Throop; and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death was a sister, Debbie Thomas.

Family and friends may call Friday, January 19th from 5pm to 8pm at Louis Rapoch Funeral Home, 420 Church St., Archbald.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, at 10am at St. Mary’s Czestochowa Church, Main Street, Eynon.  Interment at a future date to St. Mary’s Cemetery, Eynon.  In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude’s Children Hospital.

Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Louis J. Rapoch Funeral Home, Archbald.  To leave a condolence or message for the family, visit the funeral home website. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donna Marie Zelno, please visit our floral store.