Donna Arlene Lee

Tuesday, November 3, 2020 - 18:13
Donna Arlene Lee

Donna Arlene Lee

WESTERLO — Donna Arlene (née Slingerland) Lee had a personality larger than life, her family said.

“Donna lived life to the fullest. Strong-willed, determined, and often outspoken,” her family described her in a tribute.

She died peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2020. She was 81.

She was born to the late Elliott and Aileen Slingerland on Aug. 10, 1939 in Albany. A long-time caregiver, she retired from Eddy Home Healthcare in Troy.

“Adventurous, Donna would pave the way by being one of the few women in her generation to ride her own Harley Davidson motorcycle,” her family wrote. “She loved the outdoors, horseback riding, family bonfires, and long motorcycle rides.

“Donna was a woman of faith and shared that with her daughters many times. She was a great listener. While living in the nursing home, Donna found comfort watching the birds and an occasional squirrel fed from the birdfeeder outside her window. The red cardinal was her favorite.

“Donna will be missed by all,” her family concluded.

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Donna Arlene (née Slingerland) Lee is survived by her son Bruce (Fely), her daughter Denise (Mike) Stoliker, her son Brian (Patty); and her son-in-law Dennis Schmidt.

The oldest of four children, she leaves behind her sisters, MaryJane Lounsbury and Teresa McCann, and her brother, Kevin Slingerland.

She was a proud grandmother of 10 grandchildren, Tracey, Benji, Jayme, Nicole, Brandon, Cody, Brianna, Corey, and Anthony; 12 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.

Bennie Lee, the father of her four children, died before her as did her daughter, Bonnie Schmidt, and her grandson, Nathan Lee.

Private services to be held at a later date.

 

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