Donna Lorencas Neil

Donna passed away after a valiant battle, on December 5, 2014 at St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver, BC. A bright light went out when Donna left us. She is predeceased by her father Leo, husband Michael and her sesuo Ruth. She is survived by her mother Terese of Toronto, brother Edward (Lisa) of Penticton, niece Jaimie of Winnipeg, many cousins in Boston and her beloved Peppi. Donna was born and grew up in a close Lithuanian community in Toronto, Ontario. She graduated from University of Guelph where she met her soon to be husband Michael. Donna was funny, smart, adventurous and had a contagious enthusiasm for life. She loved to travel and enjoyed good food and good wine. She was an entrepreneur, owning three successful restaurants including "Mad Apples" restaurant in Bloor West Village, Toronto. Donna moved to Vancouver in the mid 1980s and eventually settled down in the West End. After leaving the restaurant business she became a well-respected financial advisor with several top firms and for the last eight years she has worked as a Securities Specialist for Investors Group, one of only 50 in the country. She will be remembered by those who loved her for the sparkle in her eye, her embracing warmth towards others, her laughter and loving nature. A Memorial to celebrate Donna's life will be held at Hamilton Harron Funeral Home, 5390 Fraser Street, Vancouver on Thursday, December 11, 2014 at 2:00 pm with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to either: The Heart and Stroke Foundation or The Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Rest in peace Donna and know that your memory lives on through the many lives you touched.