It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Donna Lewicky (nee Sullivan) with her family by her side at Sudbury Health Sciences North after a brave and valiant battle against a sudden illness.
Donna was born to Helen and Neil Sullivan in Fort William of Thunder Bay, Ontario. The loss of her father early in her life greatly impacted Donna, instilling in her an unwavering strength that would become a cornerstone for her later on.
Donna married her love Jeff in 1983, and together they had their son Jordan. Life dealt Donna a significant challenge in the Multiple Sclerosis that she was diagnosed and lived with from shortly after Jordan’s birth. Ever the optimist, Donna only saw the positive in her diagnosis, in that it allowed to her be home and closely raise Jordan, with whom she formed the closest of bonds. She was immensely proud of his academic and professional accomplishments, but ever prouder of the caregiver role he took on from an early age. Donna was also fiercely proud and grateful to Jeff for the countless sacrifices he made so that she could live the life she did. Together, Jeff and Jordan were able to care for Donna in their home where she was able to live in peace and comfort.
Donna refused to let her disease take away her ability to live life to its fullest. Together with her family, she was able to travel to many places including Florida, Las Vegas, Mexico, and the Bahamas, which was her favorite. Donna also loved music, getting to see many prominent country and rock acts in person, including multiple Bon Jovi concerts, who was her all-time favorite.
Those who knew Donna know of her love for conversation. These conversations are something we are all going to miss! Ultimately, what Donna will best be remembered for is her courage, strength, and poise in the face of near constant adversity. These are truly a testament to her character, and attributes we can all strive to emulate.
Donna is survived by her husband Jeff, son Jordan, furbaby Jaxon, niece Jodi Bjorklund, and brother John Sullivan who she was very grateful for having reconnected and frequently conversed with of late. She is also survived by her lifelong best friend Jill Perry; we are truly grateful that they were able to visit together one last time this past summer. Donna was predeceased by her mother Helen, father Neil, and stepfather Matt Cherwonick, mother-in-law Carole Lewicky, sister-in-law Brenda Lewicky, and father-in-law Floyd Lewicky.
We would like to thank the many doctors and nurses of the ICU at Health Sciences North for all their efforts, professionalism, and compassion during this most challenging of times. We would also like to thank the many PSWs and nurses, especially Rosita, Susan, and Kristy, whose dedication and care allowed Donna to remain in the comfort of her home.
As per Donna’s wishes, cremation has taken place and she will be laid to rest in a small private gathering at a later date. If friends so desire, donations to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada would be greatly appreciated in lieu of flowers.
While we know only time will heal our sorrow, we are comforted in knowing that Donna is now free of her earthly shackles, happily walking the paths of heaven!
