Evelyn "Evie" Donatell

Evelyn "Evie" Donatell, age 96 of Newport, passed away peacefully at her home on June 29, 2025.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am, Friday, July 11, 2025, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 920 Holley Avenue, St. Paul Park with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at the church cemetery with luncheon following.

Evelyn "Evie" was born on November 15, 1928 in St. Cloud, MN to Nicholas and Catherine (Essner) Cordie. Growing up along the Sauk River, Evie came from humble beginnings as the 3rd youngest of a family of 12 children. She graduated from St. Cloud Cathedral High School in 1946. She met Eugene "Gene" Donatell and they were united in marriage on January 13, 1951. Gene built their home in Newport where she has resided since 1969.

She had a natural gift for caregiving and found a meaningful role at The Priory, where she provided care as a Personal Care Attendant to the nuns during the later stages of their lives.

Evie enjoyed crocheting, playing solitare and reading. She loved spending time with and investing in the lives of her grandchildren. Her recent pastimes included keeping her driveway clean from leaves and maple tree spinners and tapping into her supply of fudge bars.

Evie is survived by her daughter Cathy (Dick) Andree; son John (Gwaynel) Donatell, daughter-in-law Vicky Donatell; six grandchildren Nathan, Katelyn, Douglas (significant other Asia), David (Melissa), Brian (significant other Anne) and Lisa (significant other Tony); 7 great-grandchildren Sadie, Taylor, Emily, Carson, Jaxon, Xander, Logan and Lana; bonus great-grandchildren Stephanie, Nicole (and son Kaydin) and Kyle as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Gene; son George; special friend Frank Weckwerth; four sisters and seven brothers.

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