On November 12, 2025, Donna Walters passed away peacefully of natural causes at Avantara Nursing Home in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois.
A lifelong Chicagoan, Donna grew up in Crystal Lake, Illinois, and carried the spirit of her city with her throughout her remarkable journey. She was named after her mother, who passed away in 1980 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Donna was the cherished middle child between her two brothers: Bill Walters, the youngest, who passed in 1987, and Albert Walters, the eldest, who passed in 2005.

Donna embodied independence, resilience, and determination; qualities that made her a role model for young women everywhere. After graduating from the University of Illinois, she embarked on her first great adventure, spending three and a half months in Mexico. There she immersed herself in the culture, learned the language, and discovered her lifelong love of travel.

Upon returning, Donna began her career as a stockbroker. With vision and perseverance, she transitioned into advertising, eventually founding and owning her own successful agency, Donna Walters & Associates.

She lived and worked in downtown Chicago before deciding to broaden her horizons even further. Donna moved to Prague, where she spent many years embracing new cultures and experiences, before ultimately returning to the Chicago area.

Donna’s life was defined by courage, ambition, and authenticity. She inspired countless people by living fully and unapologetically on her own terms. Her legacy is one of empowerment, perseverance, and joy; a testament to the extraordinary woman she was.

Donna is lovingly remembered by her nephews John and Dan Walters of Clearwater, Florida; William Cy Walters of Castle Rock, Colorado; and Kelly Walters of Anchorage, Alaska, as well as her niece, Susan Walters of Clearwater, Florida.

True to her generous spirit, Donna chose to donate her body to science, a selfless act that will continue to benefit medical research, education, and the advancement of healthcare for years to come.

Though she is no longer with us, Donna’s presence endures in the lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, and her courage, compassion, and example will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.