Donna Marie Kushner M.D.

Born on July 11, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, to Walter and Pauline Kushner, Donna grew up in a close-knit Ukrainian family that ingrained in her the values of faith, compassion, and hard work. She shared her childhood with her brother and carried her family’s traditions proudly throughout her life.

Donna’s brilliance and determination led her to pursue medicine at Wayne State University, where, in her first year of medical school, she met the love of her life, Daniel Walz. Though she was initially hesitant to mix love and academics, Donna soon found herself charmed by Dan’s persistence and warmth. Their bond grew which led to their marriage on November 26, 1988.

Together, Donna and Dan built a beautiful life centered on love, and family. When their son, Stephen, was born, Donna shifted her career to part-time so she could be fully present as a mom, a role she cherished above all others. She was the quintessential classroom mom, always bringing crafts, treats, and joy into the lives of children. She organized Christmas caroling for the nuns at the Carmelite Monastery and would send them Christmas cards too.

Donna loved traditions. Christmas and Easter were celebrated with Ukrainian customs, while Thanksgiving brought family together for days of cooking, laughter, and warmth. Her home was always decorated, inside and out, for every season and occasion. She made birthdays unforgettable, transforming them into themed celebrations complete with games, decorations, and food that matched her son’s latest fascination which went from trains to firefighters.

A devoted child and adolescent psychiatrist, Donna dedicated her professional life to helping children. Her empathy and insight touched countless families. Beyond her medical work, she gave generously to schools, churches, and local causes. She sponsored golf outings, contributed to educational programs, and always looked for ways to give back.

Donna also loved to travel and experience the world’s natural beauty. She found peace in places like California, Colorado, Arizona, and Florida, but Hawaii held a special place in her heart. Closer to home, she cherished time “Up North” in Michigan, especially in Traverse City. Fall was her favorite season, fittingly the time of year Dan proposed to her atop Sleeping Bear Dunes on October 12, 1987.

Donna’s warmth, generosity, and boundless love made every person she met feel valued. She lived her life with intention and heart—devoted to her family, her patients, and her community.

She is survived by her husband, Daniel Walz; her son, Stephen; and many extended family members, friends, colleagues, and patients who were fortunate to know her.

Donna’s spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched and in the traditions she created that continue to bring her family joy.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in honor of Donna to Paws With A Cause (https://pawswithacause.org/donate/)

A visitation will be held at A H Peters Funeral Home, located at 20705 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236, on November 14, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm. An instate period will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025 beginning at 10:00 am followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 am at St. Ambrose Church located at 15020 Hampton Street Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230