Donna Coleen Basile

Donna Coleen Basile, born on November 2, 1952, in Sibley, Iowa, and who later made her home in Westminster, Colorado, departed this life on January 12, 2025. Donna was a cherished paraeducator who dedicated her life to supporting and nurturing special needs students as they journeyed from middle to high school. Her unwavering commitment ensured that every child under her watch received the love and care they deserved. Prior to this calling, she served as a billing specialist in Cardiology at The Children's Hospital. Among her proudest accomplishments was her involvement with Little Hearts, a volunteer group dedicated to fundraising for children in need of medical procedures. Each year, Donna hit the streets with vigor and passion, bringing back corporate donations to benefit the organization's annual silent auction, luncheon, and fashion show. She also made personal donations to the auction, taking great care to assemble little boy and little girl baskets, full of toys and learning aids, that sold for well over what she put into them. The smiles on these little patients' faces as they walked the runway brought a joy to her heart like no other.

Donna also took great pride in her community. She served as the President of her Homeowners' Association for many, many years and worked hard to see it through a number of challenges. She wanted well for her neighbors and her friends, and her endeavors are a testament to her selfless nature.

Her greatest pride and joy in this life was her son, Gregory. In all she said and all she did, Gregory was her everything. He is left with the fondest of memories and will never, ever let her go.

Donna walked life with a patience and understanding that comforted and endeared her to many, particularly her family, and especially her son. Donna was a beacon of love, always putting family first and making their happiness a priority over her own comfort. She loved her nieces and nephews and looked out for them in ways they knew and in ways they did not. To them, she offered a profound sense of security and will be forever missed. Her quick wit and strong opinions were a testament to her vibrant spirit; and her willingness to express them, a source of humor and tremendous joy to all who knew her.

Donna's capacity for resilience was remarkable. She faced hardships with bravery and an unwavering strength, teaching those around her to confront challenges head on. An eternal dreamer, she helped the pragmatists around her to relax a little and appreciate the small things. She was meticulous in her wrapping of presents and folding of laundry, skills her son is proud to carry forward. He is also grateful to have come up with the principle of, "Waste not, want not," instilled in him.

Summer road trips to Sibley were a special time for her, her son, and her nieces. Donna's sister, Doreen, recalls the hours they spent together gardening, canning, and preserving. Black Friday shopping was always an event, as was staying up all night to protect the presents. Bronco games, Super Bowls, and family 4th of July parties evoke special memories of the time she shared with her siblings, especially Duane.

At home, she enjoyed reading and working crossword and Sudoku puzzles. A word search was always within arm's reach. She loved flowers and her garden. Every room in her home was graced with at least one plant. She found joy in needlework and sewing, and in her later years, exploring and understanding her family history. And of course, the Broncos. Donna was a diehard fan. She followed all aspects of the game, to include personnel changes and front office developments.

Donna's life was a testament to love, strength, and selflessness. She touched the hearts of everyone she met, leaving a legacy of kindness, resilience, and joy. Her family and friends will forever treasure the memories of her feisty, polished spirit and the enduring impact she had on their lives.

Those left to cherish her memories are her son: Gregory Prescott Basile of Severn, Maryland; her aunt, Barbara P. Blau; her brother and sister, Dennis W. Loetscher and Doreen L. Hatting; her nieces and nephews: Michelle R. Loetscher, Christina J. Whetstone, Rachel M. Loetscher, Edward F. Loetscher, Christopher N. Loetscher, Emily C. Ector, and Amanda L. Ball; and her nieces' and nephews' children: Abigail G. Whetstone, Eric F. Loetscher, Tyler M. Loetscher, Ahlyssa A. Loetscher, Cameron C. Ector, Robyn F. Ector, Samuel L. Ball, and Sadie N. Ball. 

She was preceded in death by her parents: Edward Anno Loetscher and Charnell Lucille Loetscher; and her brother: Duane E. Loetscher.