

Donny was born on April 17, 1965, in Stuttgart, Germany, and his life carried that same spirit of adventure and sense of wide horizons from beginning to end. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School, Colorado Springs in 1983 and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Colorado Boulder in 1987. He later continued his studies at the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs, where he earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology—a testament to his lifelong curiosity about the human mind and heart.
Anyone who spent time with Donny was struck by his brilliant intellect, genuine charm, and remarkable physical drive. He had a gift for making people feel at ease and treasured life’s simple pleasures—especially a thoughtful, inspired conversation shared over a delightful glass of Italian red wine. He sought peace throughout his life and offered kindness to everyone he encountered.
Donny also had a deep appreciation for dynamic music and the arts. He was drawn to creativity in all its forms and to the way music and artistic expression could awaken emotion, inspire thought, and reveal beauty beyond words. These passions reflected his sensitive spirit and his lifelong desire to experience the world fully and meaningfully. In addition, Donny possessed an extraordinary athletic drive, matched only by his profound and enduring love for sports.
Donny’s adventurous spirit carried him across the world, which he explored with passion and curiosity. Yet his deepest joy was found closer to home, along the highland trails of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. There was no place he loved more than hiking deep into Cheyenne Mountain Canyon, where the beauty of God’s creation seemed to speak directly to his soul.
Above all, Donny was a devout Christian whose love for Jesus Christ inspired those around him. His faith shaped the way he treated others, guided his search for peace, and gave meaning to every step he took—whether along a mountain trail or through the ordinary moments of daily life. Those who knew and loved him find comfort in knowing that he now rests in the presence of the Lord he loved so dearly.
Donny is survived by his brothers: Michael Ellis, his wife, Christi, and their children, Joshuah, Jacelyn, and Jordan; Tony Ellis, his wife, Tracy, and their children, Julianna, Michael, Noah, Elijah, and Brooklyn; and Christian DiMercurio, his wife, Stephanie, and their children, Annalysa, Synthia, Eleanor, Sara, Sofia, Samatha, and Spencer.
Initial funeral service will be private followed by a Celebration of Life Memorial Service at Pauline Memorial Chapel, Broadmoor (St Paul’s Chapel), 1200 pm November 25, 2026, follow by a reception in the St Paul’s Parrish, Julie Penrose Hall.
Donny will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who knew him. Il nostro amato Fratello.
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