Erin Louise Donnell

Erin Louise Donnell, age 53, passed away on November 3, 2023, at St. Mary’s Care Center while holding her mom’s hand. Erin packed a lot into her short time here on earth. She was born in Milwaukee on January 3, 1970, to Jerry and Sharon Donnell. Her fiery Irish attitude and incredible spirit helped her to excel at so many things.  She graduated from Memorial High School in 1991, earning her athletic letter by managing the football team.  She also worked many jobs, including Cousins Subs, Culvers, St. Mary’s Hospital, and her favorite, delivering mail at the Kohl Center where she impressed players and coaches. Erin participated in many Special Olympic sports, including competing in gymnastics at the World Games in 1995. Her social calendar was also full of dances, attending sporting events, bowling leagues, Packer parties with friends and so much more. Erin absolutely loved spending time with her family, being a Godmother, cheering for the Packers, Brewers, and Badger Basketball, watching the Golden Girls and being a “Mom” to her dog, Coco.

Erin is survived by her mom, Sharon, her brother Jim (Virginia), her sister Cheri (Chris) Liechty and her nieces and nephews: Charlie (Sara), Stephanie, Briana (Lucas), Samantha, Alexis, Kiara, Jenna, DJ, and great nephews Hudson and Easton. She is also survived by many friends, aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her dad, Jerry and so many other beloved family members and friends.

Erin’s family would like to thank Agrace Hospice, St. Mary’s Hospice, and the caring team at St Mary’s Care Center for all of their loving support, care and guidance over the past months.

A Celebration of Erin's Life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at the Cress Center, 6021 University Ave, Madison, WI. A visitation will be from 12 p.m. until the time of service. A luncheon will follow. We ask that everyone wear Disney or your favorite sports team clothing. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to West Madison Special Olympics, the Alzheimer’s Association (Wisconsin Chapter) or any non-profit group of your choice.

Erin's service will be live streamed. Please click on the following link: https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=7bd63136-4755-4d4f-846a-dd2e4bf6729d

Erin lit up a room with her smile and brought warmth to your life with her hugs and enthusiasm.  Once she met you, you were her friend.

Please share your memories of Erin here on her Tribute Wall.

Cress Center

6021 University Ave. Madison

(608) 238-8406