Donna M. Brizzolara

Donna Brizzolara, a beloved second-grade teacher, passed away on Sunday, April 9, 2023 at the age of 84. She was born August 22, 1938, in Geneva, Illinois to John and Sylvia (Catalano) Brizzolara.

Donna had a passion for teaching and spent over 45 years inspiring young minds in the classroom. She went to Mount Saint Mary High School in St. Charles, and then earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Northern Illinois University. After she graduated, she began teaching right away after a couple of years she settled in on 2nd grade. After she retired, she continued to volunteer at Heartland in Geneva and Holy Cross Catholic School in Batavia. Donna was a dedicated and patient teacher who always put her students first. She had a unique way of making each child feel special. Many of her former students remember her fondly and credit her with helping them develop a love for learning; many of them also took on teaching careers.

Donna was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church and enjoyed attending services and events there. She had a strong faith and found comfort in her local church. In her free time, Donna loved to bake and was known for her delicious cookies and red velvet cupcakes. She loved to share her baked goods with friends and family, and they were always a big hit.

Donna is survived by her two sisters-in-law Margaret (Louis) Brizzolara and Penelope (John) Brizzolara; two nieces Beth (John) Burke and Kim (Steve) Auchstetter; two nephews Bret Brizzolara and Ben Brizzolara; her great nieces and nephews Austin Auchstetter, Adam Auchstetter, Jack Burke, Andrew Auchstetter, Ashley Auchstetter, Charles Burke, Alexis Brizzolara, and Brooklyn Brizzolaram; and many other dear relatives and friends.  Donna will be deeply missed by her loved ones, colleagues, and former students. Her dedication to teaching will be remembered by many.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents John and Sylvia Brizzolara, and her two brothers Louis and John Brizzolara.

Funeral Prayers will be held Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at 9:30 am at Malone Funeral Home, 324 E. State Street (Route 38), Geneva proceeding to Holy Cross Catholic Church, 2300 Main Street, Batavia for Celebration of Funeral Mass at 10:30 am with Father Jared Twenty celebrant.

Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Geneva.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 16 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm at Malone Funeral Home with a liturgical wake service at 6:45 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Harrison Street School, 201 N. Harrison Street, Geneva, Illinois 60134 would be appreciated.

For information 630-232-8233 or visit malonefh.com.

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