Michelina “Mikie” DeDonato, 99, of Niles, passed away peacefully Friday morning, September 11, 2026, at Otterbein Senior Life in Cortland.

Mikie was born April 19, 1927, in Warren, Ohio, a daughter of the late Vincent James and Libre (DiMauro) Ognibene. A lifelong area resident, she was a 1945 graduate of Warren G. Harding High School. Following graduation, Mikie worked in sales for Strouss Department Store, beginning a lifetime defined by hard work, kindness, and devotion to those around her.

On November 20, 1954, Mikie married the love of her life, Carmen J. DeDonato Sr. Together, they shared 21 years of marriage and built a loving home and family in Girard before Carmen's passing in 1975. Mikie was a proud and devoted homemaker, cherishing the role of wife and mother while also contributing to her community through her work.

For 22 years, Mikie served as a secretary at St. Elizabeth Hospital. She was also a dedicated volunteer for nine years in the gift shop at Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital. Her willingness to serve others was a reflection of the generous and caring spirit she carried throughout her life.

After retiring in 1990, Mikie found her greatest joy in the simple and precious moments spent with her family. Over the past 30 years, her pride and joy were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whose lives she followed with immense love and genuine interest. She treasured every family gathering and every opportunity to be surrounded by those she loved. Among the greatest blessings of her long life was seeing five generations of her family together, a memory that will forever remain a treasured part of her family's history.

Mikie’s life was one of love, devotion, perseverance, family, and friends. One of her greatest joys in life was hosting gatherings with family and friends which always included her Italian cooking. People close to her and even strangers always felt welcome and enjoyed her company. For most of her life she enjoyed playing card games with formal groups and with her family. She also enjoyed playing bocce, reading a good book, and of course, trying new recipes. She leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond the years she lived – a legacy carried on through the stories, traditions, values, and love she shared with those closest to her. Her gentle presence, warm heart, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed, but the imprint she left on the lives of those she loved will remain forever.

Mikie will always be remembered and lovingly cherished by her sons, Carmen J. DeDonato Jr. of Girard and Stephen M. (Judy) DeDonato of Holland, Ohio; grandchildren, Christopher (Nicole) DeDonato, Danielle (Anthony) Marsco, Amy DeDonato, and Emily (Constantine) Karras; nine great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Additionally, Mikie will always be remembered and lovingly cherished by her niece, Loretta (Ron) McHenry, who was devoted to providing loving care to her Aunt Mikie for many years until her passing.

In addition to her parents and beloved husband, Carmen, Mikie was preceded in death by her son, James DeDonato; her infant sister, Michelina; her brother, Nunzio and sister-in-law Theresa Ognibene; her sister, Rose and brother-in-law John Carl; her daughter-in-law Clara DeDonato; her grandson, Carmen DeDonato, III; her grandson James DeDonato; and her companion of 17 years, Frank Discerni.

Family and friends may visit and pay tribute to Mikie on Saturday, September 19 from 9:30 to 10:30 am at the Peter Rossi & Son Memorial Chapel, 1884 North Rd. NE, Warren, OH 44483.

There will be a funeral mass on Saturday, September 19 at 11 am at St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish – St. James Church Site, 2532 Burton St. SE Warren, OH 44484.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Michelina’s name to a charity of your choice.

Family and friends may visit www.peterrossiandsonfh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to the DeDonato family.