Anna Marie Donato

Anna Marie Donato passed away peacefully at her home in Rotterdam, New York, on July 8, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on November 26, 1929, in Ballston Spa, New York, Anna, affectionately known as Annie, was the daughter of Lucy DePasquale and Sam DiPersio. She attended Mt. Pleasant High School in Schenectady, NY, where she was a member of the basketball team. Annie was the beloved wife of the late Joe Donato and a devoted mother to three children. She is survived by her daughter Catherine Donato Stroud (Lee), beloved daughter-in-law Cheryl Donato, son-in-law Paul Brunt, and sister-in-law Theresa Cassella. Annie was predeceased by her children, Tom Donato and Diane Brunt, as well as her cherished husband, Joe. She was a vibrant and cherished grandmother to Joel Donato (Greta), Tom Donato, Sarah Hall, Jennifer Brunt, and Anna DeGeorgia. Annie was also an adored great-grandmother to Rachel

Donato, Kyle Donato, Lauren Donato, Parker Hall, Catherine Hall, Charlotte Brunt, and Mary DeGeorgia, and leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends. After settling in Schenectady, New York, Annie and her late husband Joe were the proud proprietors of Sportsman's Bowl for 40 years. While Joe was the public face of the business, Annie was the instrumental force behind the scenes, ensuring its smooth operation. She was an avid bowler, had a competitive spirit and was the best bowler in Rocket League history. In her personal time, Annie loved traveling, especially to Las Vegas and Atlantic City, where she enjoyed playing slot machines. Annie loved sports and was a die-hard Yankees fan, rarely missing a game. A memorable moment in her life was when Joe DiMaggio surprisingly graced her kitchen table for lunch, for whom she prepared linguini with garlic oil and anchovies. Later in life, Annie dedicated her time to her family and as a committed volunteer at Proctor's Theatre in Schenectady, earning the well-deserved honor of Volunteer of the Year in 2019.

Calling hours will be held at the DeLegge Funeral Home at 1346 Chrisler Ave, Schenectady on Monday July 14th, 2025 from 10am-12pm. A brief service will be held at the funeral home immediately following calling hours. A private interment will be held for the family after the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The American Cancer Society in Anna Marie Donato’s memory. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Hospice especially Lori Clark and Gabe Segar.