Donna J Asher

On Sunday, May 26th, 2024,  we lost Donna Asher, beloved wife, cousin, niece, daughter-in-law, friend and coach.

Donna is survived by her wife, (Ellen) Marie Buccellato.  She is also survived by her aunt Evelyn Cosumano, many loving cousins including Annette and Dominic Coppola, Robert and Roseanne Cosumano, and Maria and Greg DeLuca,  as well as her beloved goddaughter Susanne Apazidis and her family.  Donna was predeceased by her parents Morton and Angela Asher (Lombardo).

On October 7, 2012, Donna and Marie were married in Mohegan Lake, NY , surrounded by family and friends.  This was a joyous day that could only be rivaled by their Commitment Ceremony held in Provincetown, MA on May 21, 2005.  Donna and Marie moved to Las Vegas, NV in January 2016.  Together they traveled and enjoyed life’s adventures.

Donna had many loving friends with whom she loved sharing new experiences and travelling with.  Donna had a very unique personality, a fierce sense of loyalty and boundless depth of heart.  Donna put the needs of the less fortunate ahead of her own.  She was also an amazing and honest friend.  She will be missed.

Donna devoted her life and career to coaching athletes with special needs.  Donna loved coaching Special Olympics and spent many Summer Games in Buffalo, Albany, and Utica.  She enjoyed every moment with the athletes and loved reminiscing when she was no longer coaching.  Donna could talk and laugh for hours, recalling the very special people, relationships, and events that make up the Special Olympics community.

Donna’s life was reflective of the Special Olympics Athlete Oath, “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Donna’s name to :

Special Olympics New York - Hudson Valley Region

1207 Route 9, Suite 1C
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590

845-262-6010