In Memory of Donna L. Loftus

Obituary

Donna L. Loftus, age 70, of Utica, NY, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 23, 2024, at MVHS Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. She was loved and comforted by her children until the moment she was joined again with her beloved Michael.

She was born on September 9, 1954, in Utica, NY, to the late Donald and Rita (Gotte) Sparrow. Donna attended and graduated from Whitesboro Schools and continued her education at the Utica School of Commerce.

On October 2, 1976, Donna married Michael Loftus at St. Peter’s Church in Utica, NY. He was the love of her life, her best friend, her travel partner, and her happiness. He preceded her in death on July 16, 2017, and she has missed him every moment since.

Donna was a strong, dedicated mother, a proud and watchful grandmother, and while she was a homemaker most of her adult life, she was never above taking on a job or task that needed to be done. She had a love of traveling, whether it was family trips to the Outer Banks, or exciting excursions with Mike to Las Vegas, Maine, Key West, or wherever called to them for their next adventure. She enjoyed visiting casinos anywhere they traveled and was always ready for whatever came next. Donna was willful and proud with a kind and loving heart. She was generous, loyal, and giving, and never put up with unkindness.

She is survived by her favorite son, Michael Loftus Jr.; beloved daughters, Colleen (David) Nelson, and Heather (Michael) Ellis. Her grandchildren James, Julia, and Jenna (Ellis), and Charlotte Nelson, were her greatest pride, and the light of her life. She reveled in their warm hugs and laughter and will continue to watch over them forever. She is also survived by her brother George Sparrow (Denise), Salvatore Sparrow (Margaret) and many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

She was predeceased by the love of her life Michael Loftus Sr., her parents Donald and Rita (Gotte) Sparrow, and her brother Michael Sparrow and his wife Joni.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Terry Marshall and Bonnie Conte for their endless love, support, and friendship to both Donna and her loved ones.

The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and caregivers at the MVHS Rehabilitation and Nursing Center that took the time to get to know Donna, and whose dedication and kindness brought comfort to her family.

Calling hours will be held on September 29th from 3:00-5:00 PM at Friedel, Williams, and Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services at 13 Oxford Road, New Hartford. The funeral service will follow at 5:00 PM.

Memorial donations may be made to Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society, 5664 Horatio Street, Utica, NY 13502.

Online messages of sympathy may be left at www.fwefh.com

Arrangements are in the care of Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, New Hartford.