Donna L. Stoer

Donna L. Stoer, a cherished pillar of her community, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2024, at the age of 85. Born on May 12, 1939, in Groveport, Ohio, she was a beacon of strength, warmth and kindness whose vibrant spirit touched many lives.

 A proud graduate of Scioto Township High School, class of 1957, Donna was the homecoming queen, a cheerleader for the basketball team and a beloved student, where she met her high school sweetheart, Jim. Their love story blossomed, culminating in a wonderful 64 year partnership.

 Throughout her career, Donna worked for the State of Ohio, then for Ohio Bell before embracing the role of homemaker. She later became a philanthropist deeply committed to supporting military and veterans in need — a testament to her generous spirit and compassionate nature.

 As a devoted mother, Donna was deeply involved in the lives of her children, Candy and James (Andy). A natural leader, she was actively involved in Campfire Girls and Boy Scouts then later chaperoned and led fundraising efforts for the Grove City Band, demonstrating her commitment to both family and community.

 Her zest for life was evident in her many passions, including ball room and square dancing with Jim. They took lessons together for years, competing and celebrating numerous victories, a reflection of the love they shared and the joy they found in each other's company.

 In every aspect of her life—whether training her beloved German Shepherds or cherishing her 'therapy' dogs, Dovie and Luna—Donna's passion for nurturing and caring was ever present. She also took immense pride in founding Stoer Farm Market, forging lasting friendships. She meticulously cared for the market and cherished every moment spent with those who walked through its doors.

 As we gather to celebrate her remarkable journey, we remember the loving memories of Donna, made even more precious by those who survive her: her devoted husband, Jim, who shared a lifetime of love with her; her cherished children, Candy, James (Andy), and close friend Todd Bitler; her dear sister, Ann Neal, close friend Donna Slagle; and so many other friends.

 Donna is preceded in death by her father, Carl Leon Drake; mother, Olive Pearl Drake; brother, Carl B Drake; and sister, Alice M D'Alessandro. While they may no longer walk beside her, their love clearly shaped the woman she became.

 Visitation will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest in Grove City, Ohio, on October 16, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and again on October 17, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. A 'Celebration of Life' gathering with food and drink will follow at the farm. We invite all who were touched by Donna to join us in honoring a life well-lived and a heart that gave so much to others. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to either The Wounded Warrior Project https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/or The American Cancer Society https://donate.cancer.org/ in her memory.