Donna Jeanne Citerio

Donna Jeanne Citerio, 96, passed away at her home on May 5, 2024, with loved ones by her side. Heaven gained an absolute legend!

Donna was born to Hewlett (Jack) and Grace Jewell (Grow) on October 2, 1927, in Salt Lake City, UT. As an only child, she realized early in life that she wanted a large family.

After graduating from South High School at 16, Donna went to work at the Clearfield and Kearns Naval Supply Depots during WWII. She later became a hairdresser and florist. But it wasn't until she met Alfred (Fred) Citerio that her life was truly happy. They married on March 13, 1953 and never looked back. 71 years, 6 daughters, 17 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren later - Donna and Fred have remained inseparable.

During that time, Donna became an avid bowler and traveled with Fred (and the rest of the Late Bloomers) throughout the US to compete in various tournaments. Her travels with Fred were to unexpected places at times, but those trips often became the best - because they were shared with those she loved. Incredibly, being a hairdresser herself, she always made sure her hair was fabulous (not moving!) from sunup to sundown. Travel, bowling, sickness - nothing stopped Donna from her hair appointment.  

As her kids became older, and they welcomed kids of their own, Donna realized she was becoming the matriarch of the family she desired. She was a wonderful cook, known for her minestrone soup, chili, nuts and bolts and always kept a neat and tidy house. Every Christmas her home turned into a magical place, full of nutcrackers, Christmas villages and nativities.  Her family was her everything and nothing was greater than being "Grandma Donna". She leaned into the moments to show support, to shower her family with love, and did so in a way that she left everyone thinking they were her favorite. And they'd all be right.  

Her sharp wit and infectious humor could light up any room.  She was spicy, hilarious, full of life and loved playing cards which transformed many kitchen tables into a night you’d never forget. Always up for a party and never missed an opportunity to hit the casino.  Her presence alone spreads an infectious desire to have fun and, as long as you aren't late on the ante (and her pointer finger would let you know), she had all the patience in the world to take your money that evening. She absolutely lived for those moments - surrounded by her family and loved ones - and could hardly wait to bring everyone together for holidays and events.

Donna certainly wasn't known to turn down a sweet treat (especially caramels), and you were just as likely to find her in a casino as you were any of her grandchildren’s events. From dancing the night away at a wedding, to seeing the sunrise from a cabin - Donna truly embraced life and had a heart worth more than gold. She had the ability to uplift and heal with a kiss, a hug, or one of her witty, well timed (often inappropriate) jokes.

To know Donna is to love her. She lived a life full of laughter, love and memories.

Never before has someone been more unforgettable.

She is survived by the love of her life, Fred - a man selfless in his love and care for her; daughters Sandy (Jim) Wardell, Chris Evans, Jill (Phil) Pulver, Jan (Rick) Cowles, Terri (Travis) Dalley, and Sherri (Lyle) West; 17 grandchildren; 40 great- grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Grace Jewell.

Viewing services will be held on Monday, May 13, 2024 from 6-8pm as well as Tuesday, May 14th, 2024 from 10-10:45am, with funeral services to follow at 11am. 6500 S Redwood Road.

At the young age of 94 her wonderful husband Fred gave an unwavering and unmeasurable amount of love and care for his unforgettable wife, “DJ”.   A special thanks to Jill and Phil for their unconditional love and time spent to care for Grandma Donna and Grandpa Fredo. The family would also like to thank Dr. Towner and the staff at the Salt Lake Clinic as well as doctors and staff at Salt Lake Cancer Center and Quality Hospice for their support and care of our beloved Donna.