Donna Metz, 80, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and gentle strength that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Born on August 27, 1945, in Elkhart, she was the beloved daughter of William E. and Martha J. (McKesson) Dickson, who preceded her in death and surely welcomed her home with joy.

Donna's life was a beautiful reflection of kindness in action. She was compassionate to her core, endlessly forgiving, and generous in ways both big and small. She had a soft heart and a playful spirit—she loved being silly, making people laugh, and finding joy in the everyday moments that others might overlook. Her presence brought comfort, her laughter brought light, and her love was something you could feel simply by being near her.

Family meant everything to Donna. She loved deeply and completely, and her devotion to those she loved never wavered. She was a proud mother, a devoted grandmother, and—most especially—a great-grandmother, a role that brought her unparalleled joy and purpose. Being "Great-Grandma" was not just something she did; it was who she was. She poured her heart into her great-grandchildren, Vinnie and Sammi Marcolini, celebrating every smile, every story, every precious moment. Her eyes sparkled when she spoke of them, and her love for them was limitless.

Donna shared an especially close and treasured bond with her granddaughter Stephanie, whom she loved with her whole heart. Stephanie was a constant source of pride and joy for Donna, and their connection was one of deep love, trust, and shared laughter. That bond will forever remain a guiding light.

A lifelong animal lover, Donna had a special place in her heart for dogs and cats. She believed animals were family, and her compassion extended to every furry soul she encountered. Her home—and her heart—were always open to them, just as they were to people.

Donna was also a woman of quiet determination and accomplishment. She was immensely proud to graduate from Notre Dame Real Estate School, a milestone that reflected her perseverance and belief in herself. In the late 1980s, she took a bold step and opened her own real estate office, building something of her own through hard work, integrity, and care for others. She approached her career the same way she approached life—with honesty, warmth, and a genuine desire to help people find their place in the world.

When she wasn't working or caring for her family, Donna found joy in the simple, meaningful things she loved most. She adored crocheting, creating handmade treasures filled with patience and love. She loved cooking and sharing meals, believing food was one of the purest expressions of love. Holidays were sacred to her—Thanksgiving and Christmas held a special magic, times when her home was filled with warmth, tradition, and togetherness. These were the moments she cherished most.

Donna also loved to travel, embracing adventure and beauty wherever she went. She treasured special trips to Mexico and the Canary Islands, collecting memories and stories that reflected her curiosity and appreciation for life's wonders.

Donna leaves behind a life well lived—a life marked by love, service, gentleness, and joy. She taught by example what it means to be kind, to forgive freely, to love without limits, and to show up for the people (and animals) who matter most.

Go be in peace, Mom. Your work here is done. You loved fiercely, gave generously, and lived beautifully—and you did a fantastic job.

She is survived by her loving son, Mike Markley; her cherished granddaughter, Stephanie; her grandson-in-law, Adam Marcolini; and her adored great-grandchildren, Vinnie and Sammi Marcolini. She is also survived by her siblings, Jim, Lynn, and Patty, along with many extended family members, friends, and all those whose lives were made better simply by knowing her.

In honor of Donna's deep love for animals, memorial contributions may be made to Pet Refuge, 4626 S. Burnett Drive, South Bend, IN 46614.

A gathering to celebrate Donna's life will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 10776 McKinley Hwy., Osceola, Indiana. A funeral service will immediately follow the gathering, with interment afterward at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

To leave a message for the family, please go to ChapelHillMemorial.com