DONNA J CORDARO (nee Dipierro) age 79, beloved wife for 59 years of Joe; loving mother of twins Donna Marie Iosue (husband Michael) & Anna Marie Cordaro, and Carla Benvenuto (husband Denny), and Joseph Edward Cordaro; devoted grandmother of Matthew and Andrew Bailey, and Avery and Brody Benvenuto; cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Elizabeth (nee Crossen) and treasured step-daughter of the late Howard Kendall; dearest sister of the late Edward Dipierro and adored sister in law of Carmella "Dolly" Santangelo and Paul & Toni Lee Cordaro; dear aunt, great-aunt, and friend of many.
Donna Dipierro was born on July 30, 1946, to Joseph and Elizabeth Dipierro. She attended John Adams High School, and soon later married Joe, her high school sweetheart and love of her life. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising four beloved children in a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.
A dedicated mother and homemaker, Donna poured her heart into nurturing her family. Her Catholic faith was a guiding light in her life. She lived her beliefs with grace and humility, actively participating in parish life as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Clare Catholic Church, renewing her faith through spiritual retreats, and playing a vital role in the church's prayer group. Her devotion touched many and reflected the deep strength of her spirit.
Donna was also a passionate supporter of Cleveland sports and a proud Buckeye. Every fall Saturday, she could be found cheering on her favorite team, The Ohio State Buckeyes, with unmatched enthusiasm.
Of all her roles, none brought her more joy than being with her family. Affectionately known as "Nani" or "Ma," Donna was a deeply loving grandmother to Matthew, Andrew, Avery, and Brody. She treasured her time with them, creating memories filled with warmth, laughter, and love, memories that will live on in their hearts forever.
Donna faced her illness with remarkable courage, strength, and grace. Though the disease was relentless, she met each day with determination and faith, inspiring everyone around her with her resilience.
Her legacy is one of unconditional love, quiet strength, and boundless generosity. Donna will be remembered always, for the way she loved, the way she lived, and the way she made everyone around her feel cherished.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Donna to Hospice of The Western Reserve at PO Box 72101 Cleveland 44192 or online HERE. Family and friends are requested to meet for the Mass of Christian Burial Friday, May 23, at 10 AM. at St. Clare Catholic Church (5659 Mayfield Rd, Cleveland, OH 44124). Cremation following the Mass entrusted to DeJohn Crematory. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Donna at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) THURSDAY 4-8 PM.
Thursday, May 22, 2025
4:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)
DeJohn Funeral Home & Celebrations Center
Friday, May 23, 2025
10:00 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Church of St. Clare
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