Donna B. Gendreau

Donna Gendreau, beloved wife of Rene Gendreau for nearly 58 years, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Donna was the daughter of Arthur A. Beyer and Nadia (Begansky) Beyer, and was raised in Enfield, where she graduated from Enfield High School. She worked for several local businesses throughout her career, including Pierce Archives, Roncari Parking, a hairdresser in Hazardville, and Hamilton Standard—where she first met the love of her life, Rene.

Donna and Rene built a beautiful life together in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, where they spent 47 years raising their two children before retiring to Punta Gorda, Florida, where they enjoyed eight years in the warm Florida sun.

Donna will be deeply missed by her devoted husband, Rene, and their children: daughter Michele Mansella and her husband, Frank, of Coventry, and son Denis Gendreau and his wife, Heather, of Canton. She also leaves behind five beloved grandchildren—Sophia, Joseph, Julia, Cayleigh, and Caden—who brought her tremendous joy. Donna is also survived by her sister, Sue Heim of Punta Gorda, along with several cherished nieces and nephews.

A private ceremony will be held for the family in Punta Gorda, with a Celebration of Life/Memorial Service in Connecticut to be scheduled at a later date.

Charitable donations may be made in Donna’s name to the American Cancer Society.