Donna Burke

Donna (Marazzi) Burke was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, and friend. She passed away on December 16, 2021, at Mercy Hospital in Folsom after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

She was born to Isabel (Judy) Pimentel and Dino Marazzi in San Francisco, CA, on January 6, 1947, and was raised by her parents along with her Aunt Rosie and Grandmother Nonie. In 1959 Donna moved to Daly City with her mother and stepfather, Jerry Wright. She was close to her two half-sisters, Debbie and Terri. In high school, Donna met the love of her life, Kevin Burke. They married young – Donna was 19 and Kevin was 20 – and had 55 wonderful years together.

Donna was a devoted Christian throughout her life. Though raised Catholic, she joined the Protestant faith with her husband. She served faithfully in the churches they attended, and every morning Donna could be found sitting in her favorite chair in the living room doing Bible study, journaling, and listening to worship music. She was a source of spiritual wisdom and encouragement to her many friends.

Donna treasured her family. She and Kevin shared a unique, loving, and honest relationship. They have two children (Kevin Patrick and Debra Teresa) and six grandchildren (McKenna, Delaney, and Sophia with daughter in law, Tina; along with Doug, Justin and David with son-in-law, David). Donna’s favorite topic of conversation was her family. She was so proud of their accomplishments.

One of Donna’s greatest achievements was graduating at the top of her class at Cal State East Bay at the age of 47 with a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Social Services. Her major in social services dovetailed with her generous and merciful heart. Donna was always ready to fight for the underdog.

Kevin and Donna moved from the Bay Area to start a new life in Placerville in 2003. Here she developed and maintained wonderful relationships with several of her neighbors, who in her final year offered comfort and companionship. Donna previously became involved with Kelsey’s Needle Krafts on Main Street – first as a volunteer, then as a co-owner. She spent countless hours in the store assisting customers and keeping the store beautifully arranged. Her talent with needlework and cross stitch grew and gave her many hours of pleasure creating home décor and gifts for friends and family.

Donna took great joy in creating a beautiful home and yard. Every time you walked into her home, you were likely to find something new and different to enjoy. She and Kevin were wonderful hosts – whether it be for a home group, a neighborhood event, a few friends for dinner, or a guest in need of lodging.

Donna enjoyed the trip of a lifetime three years ago when she accompanied her son Kevin to Italy. She returned home full of appreciation for being able to visit her ancestry.

This tribute would not be complete without mentioning Donna’s beloved canine companion, Sterling. She found him online, and Kevin agreed to add a new member to their family. Several times a day you could find Donna and/or Kevin out walking Sterling in the neighborhood or downtown.

Donna will be honored at a celebration of life at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 15, 2022, at Westside Church, 4657 Missouri Flat Rd., Placerville. Donations may be given to Compassion International, (see their website) in Donna’s memory.

Donna, we loved you deeply and will miss you greatly. You will forever in our hearts.