Donna Marie Mincher Kukucka Keslar 1930-2025

Donna was born June 5, 1930, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Fred and Margaret Breese Mincher, and was a lifelong area resident.

She briefly worked for PennOhio Towel Supply before dedicating her life to her family, becoming the cornerstone of her loved one’s lives. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and friend who radiated a deep and genuine care for others.

A woman of faith, Donna attended the former Youngstown Baptist Church.

She loved life’s simple pleasures, from square dancing and attending fairs to listening to old country music. She cherished her days spent working on the farm with her beloved husband, Paul, and was known for her unique talent for yodeling. Donna also delighted in baking cupcakes for her young children and tackling word search puzzles, but above all, she found joy in spending time with her family.

Donna is survived by her children, Mary Cominsky (John Starasinic) of Austintown, Margaret Bennett of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Theresa (Joseph) Fekety of Austintown, Donna (David) Crites of Austintown, Paula (William) Slusher of Struthers and Paul (Nancy) Keslar of Hubbard; 11 grandchildren, Jamie, Kayla, Nicole, Joseph, Katie, Marsha, David, Amanda, Anita, Candace and Jacquelyn; six great-grandchildren, Miranda, Hayley, Taylor, Cameron, Gavin and Collin; two great-great-grandchildren, NovaLee and Xavior; her stepson, John (Donna) Keslar of Punxsutawney, Pa.; step-granddaughter, Heather; and two step-great-grandchildren, Stella and Violet.

Her first husband, George Michael Kukucka, whom she married Jan. 26, 1952, died Oct.16, 1961. Her second husband, Paul O. Keslar, whom she married March 8, 1964, died March 14, 2024.

Donna was also preceded in death by her son, William Earl Keslar; her grandson, Thomas Bennett; and her siblings, Mary Young, Vivian Chattam, John “Jack” Mincher, Edward Mincher and Fred Mincher.

Donna’s unwavering love, strength and kindness will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Family and friends may call 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown, where a funeral service will be at noon.

Interment will follow in Green Haven Memorial Gardens, where Donna will be laid to rest beside her husband, Paul.

Donna’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Austinwoods Nursing Center and Southern Care Hospice for their kindness and compassionate care. Your dedication and support meant so much to Donna and her loved ones during her time with you. Thank you for the comfort you provided and for being a part of her journey.

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