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Preston Cook furnished the following Facebook message about the passing of our classmate, Donna Salamon (Bree):
Donna Louise Bree, a radiant soul born on December 1, 1946, in Evanston, Illinois, departed this world on November 9, 2025, in Lakewood, California, after bravely facing the challenges posed by Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy. She was a loving daughter, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother whose warmth and humor left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Her journey through life was defined by devotion, resilience, and unwavering spirit. Early in her adult life, she poured her heart into caring for her family and creating a warm, loving home. When her husband fell ill, Donna faced life's challenges with quiet strength. With a pioneering spirit, Donna entered the corporate world, dedicating a portion of her career to AARP. When the west coast office closed, she took a leap of faith, starting her own business, "Just A.S.K.” where she provided other small businesses with administrative services and helping numerous students transform their academic dreams into polished, profound theses and dissertations.
In the pursuit of her dreams, Donna demonstrated an admirable commitment to education. With proud determination, she returned to the classroom, graduating Summa Cum Laude from Loyola Marymount in 1996—an achievement that stood as a beacon of her fierce intellectual spirit and commitment to continuous learning.
Known for her social nature, Donna had a gift for making people feel seen and valued. Her personality was a delightful blend of charm, wit, and intuition. She was compassionate and supportive, always ready to lend an ear or a helping hand. Her engaging spirit brought joy into every room she entered, and her intelligence and creativity were evident in all her endeavors.
She leaves behind her loving family: her son, Joe Bree; her daughter, Vicki (David) Adams; her grandson, David (Kristin) French, and their sons, Ashton and Orion; her granddaughter, Stephanie (Ricky Bissett) French, and their sons, Kayden and Wyatt; And her grandson, Ian Adams. Each of them carries forward her legacy of love, laughter, and perseverance.
Donna was preceded in death by the love of her life, Joe, who passed away in 1991. The love between them was eternal, his memory was etched in her heart, ever-present even after his passing, and forever imprinted in the hearts of their family.
A viewing and memorial service will be held in her honor at Luyben Dilday Mortuary, December 11, 4:00 - 8:00pm.
Mass celebrating her life will be held at St. Cyprian Church, December 12, at 10:00am
Followed by graveside service at All Souls Cemetery. Gravesite location
Donna’s life was a remarkable journey filled with love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting those around her. She will be deeply missed but fondly celebrated in the hearts of many.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Donna Louise Bree, please visit our flower store. https://www.luybendilday.com/obituaries/donna-bree?ttm_pid=210283931&ttm_affiliate=legacypro&ttm_affiliatetype=standard&ttm_campaign=legacy
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Thomas Wardell
Did not know this young woman. Beautifully written Preston. Hope you and yours had a very nice Thanksgiving! Tom
Sherwin "Jay" Siegall
Devestated!! Had not been able to reach her past several months. Weve lost a beautiful person and friend. RIP my friend
Jane Henry (Andersen)
I sort of knew Donna in high school, but mostly in passing. She reached out to me on facebook several years ago and we became facebook friends. I can't remember exactly when but it was about the time she became a grandmother and great-grandmother within the couple months of each other. I enjoyed getting to know her so much better than in high school. I was so sad to see that she had recently passed. I could see that she loved her family and her family loved her. We both continued to work well past retirement age and we shared our stories. She will be missed.
Susan Burns (Bangs)
Thank you Preston for posting. Donna introduced me to Job's Daughters and I remember when one summer day she invited me to an installation ceremony, I was so inspired and discovered that my Dad was a Mason so I was eligible to join. Mr. Salamon, the adult treasurer, was always at the meetings. Donna was an Honored Queen. I will always be grateful to Donna and to have been a part of a faternal organization that believes in religious freedom. I had connected with Donna on FB also and was wondering why she hadn't been active. She certainly lived as One of the Fairest. Peace and blessings to Donna's family.