Obituary of Donna Rae Altmire
With her family by her side, Donna Rae Altmire left us on December 14th at the age of 59 to join loved ones waiting to welcome her on the blue side of Heaven.
Predeceased by her mother, Doris Youngman; uncle, Gerald Crocka; aunt, Jean Fairey.
Survived by her father, Ronald Morales; husband, John Altmire; son, Todd (Kathleen) Miller; daughter, Jamie (Benjamin) Richards; sisters, Diane Giambrone and Doreen (Jeff) Riales; brother, David (Karen) Youngman; nephews Adam Giambrone, David Youngman and William (Jean) Miller; many special aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Like her mother Doris before her, Donna was a force of nature--full of energy, humor, generosity, love for family and friends, and a drive to live each day completely. Her hands and mind were always busy with projects, ideas and creative ways to make commonplace things or events a bit more special and out of the ordinary. There was never a doubt how Donna felt about things; her heart always compelled her to speak her truth. The phrase, “to love and be loved is the greatest gift of all”, embodies the essence of her being.
Donna had so many talents--a gifted and admired baker, seamstress, artist, decorator, event planner and craftsperson, to name a few. By far, her greatest accomplishment was in nurturing and raising Todd and Jamie to be just like her--honest, hard-working, fun loving, adventurous, compassionate and thoughtful adults of value who, in turn, are so valued by the people who know them. Her children gave her the greatest joy and satisfaction in her life, and no mother is more cherished.
For many years Donna refused to give in to illness or let it stop her from doing what was important. Everyone she encountered soon realized her tenacity and strength, and she amazed us by facing down so many challenges and setbacks with determination and bravery, and the sheer will to survive for the ones she loved. We feel blessed and grateful for the time spent with this beautiful and remarkable soul; for the weddings, graduations and holiday celebrations we shared that were made so special by her presence; for all the wonderful memories she made for us; and for the endless love she gave us.
Special thanks to Jeanne Megali for her friendship and love, and to the Yates County Hospice for their compassion and care.
The family will receive friends and relatives on Tuesday, December 19 from 4 pm to 7 pm at Miller Funeral and Cremation Services of Victor, Inc., 301 W Main St, Victor, NY 14564. A private service and interment will be held on Wednesday, December 20 at White Haven Memorial Park.