Donna Mae (Dowling) Gaydos, 88 of North Olmsted, OH went home to Jesus peacefully in her home, surrounded by family on February 9, 2011.

Donna was born April 13, 1922 in Erie, PA, daughter of the late Wallace Dowling and Helen Zaborowski (Studeny). Donna was preceded in death by her husband, John Joseph Gaydos. She is survived by her children John (Jan), Donna "Mike" (Ed) Andrews, Bob (Anna Maria), grandchildren Jennifer, Matt, Sally (Brent) Gregg, Erin, Katy, Stephanie, Elizabeth, sister-in-law Mary Gaydos and many dear friends including Janie and Lorette.

Donna was a very kind, generous and spiritual person who touched many lives. She enjoyed church services and activities with her many friends at Holy Love Ministries, St. Brendan parish and other area Catholic churches. Donna loved family gatherings and cherished the time that she spent with her seven grandchildren.

Donna's career as a waitress extended from western New York and Erie to several west side restaurants. It was while working at Kiefer's on Detroit that she met Johnny and they married in 1946. In midlife she held a variety of positions within the Cleveland Board of Education.

She enjoyed nature's simple beauty, whether working in her yard, walking along Huntington Beach or hiking, skipping stones and picnicking with her children and grandchildren in the Metroparks.

Our sincere gratitude to the physicians and staff of MetroHealth, especially Dr. James Finley and Dr. James Campbell; the Visiting Nurse Association of Cleveland and the loving care and relief provided by VNA Hospice.

Friends may call on Thursday February 17 from 2 to 4 pm and from 6 to 8 pm at Chambers Funeral Home, 29150 Lorain Rd. North Olmsted. All are welcomed to attend an 11:00 Funeral Mass Friday February 18 at St. Brendan Catholic Church, 4242 Brendan Ln. North Olmsted, immediately followed by a luncheon reception in the adjacent Kenny Hall. Donna has requested mass cards in lieu of flowers.