Donna Francis Croft

September 12, 1948 - April 13, 2021

​

Surrounded by her loving family, Donna Croft (nee Meloche) of Chatsworth passed peacefully at Chapman House Owen Sound, on April 13, 2021, at age 72. Loving wife of 48 years to Larry. Cherished mother of Larry Croft Jr. (Jenn) of Holland Centre and Shelley Torrie (Brent) of Chatsworth. Doting grandma of Danielle, Cole, Braden, and Easton. Dear sister of Bonita Jones (Bud), Mary Watson (Larry), Bill (Marlene), Tom (Peggy), Nick (Jenny), D'Arcy (Christy) and Robert Meloche (Janet). Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents Bill and Helen Meloche (nee D'Arcy) and first husband Tim Pearson.

​

Her radiant smile was the first thing most people noticed about Donna Francis Croft. To her close friends and family, who adored her, it was her absolute infectious zest for life and alluring smile they remarked about. In her early years, Donna learned the value of hard work as she held jobs at the Wilson's Bakery and Edwards Factory in Owen Sound. She experienced loss as a young woman when her first husband Tim passed after only 3 years of marriage. Larry Sr. was a close friend and support to her. It would take several years of friendship and courting before they would wed in 1972. Two beautiful children would quickly follow; Shelley and Larry Jr. would complete their family circle. Her kids would become the joy of her life. Winters spent at the Williamsford arena watching hockey, summers at Williams lake at the yacht club, kayaking, boating, and swimming. Evenings were spent kicking back with friends and family "jamming" around a campfire.  Donna was a born entertainer. She loved to host a party and especially loved to dress up. She was always well put together, hair, makeup and clothes but also enjoyed "dressing up!" Masquerading as Sonny and Cher, Johnny and June Cash, Tammy Wynette, Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn and hosting Christmas parties as Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Crossdressing for parties was always an option too and Larry Sr. was a good sport.
Donna played the keyboard a little, sang a lot and was a great dancer.  She danced with everyone, especially with her 2 sisters,  dancing their way to California, Arizona, Mexico, Cuba, Florida and Paradise Island. Donna was always up for a good party and making music with her friends. When her 4 grandchildren were born they became her greatest joy. She truly enjoyed spending time with each of them: travelling to sporting events like hockey, soccer and baseball, sleep overs, playing restaurant and dress up.
Donna was also dedicated to her community and helping neighbours and anyone in need. She was famous for serving "Caesar Sunday’s” And shot ski shooters for the yearly horseshoe tourney at the Glendale Yacht Club.
In her quiet time she enjoyed working in her gardens with her flowers and vegetables and always relished feeding and watching the birds.
She LOVED LIFE! She was fun to be around and had a remarkable sense of humour. She was a great wife and always positive. She remained positive even at the end facing the final challenges of her life. She wrote in her remembrance book, "I want my family to remember me for smiling and laughing". And they will....for in the words of one of her best friends; "No one lived life to the fullest more than Donna. You always put people before yourself whether it was hosting parties or anniversaries. Lots and lots of great fun memories. I miss you but I can almost hear you singing and see you dancing at the pearly gates".

​

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Garafraxa Hill Funeral Home, Chatsworth.  A Celebration of Donna's Life will be announced at a later date. Inurnment at Mount Zion Cemetery, Holland Centre. If desired, memorial donations to Chapman House or St. Stanislaus Church in Chatsworth, would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.garafraxahillfuneral.com

​

​

​

​