MADISON - Donna M. (Traska) Schroeder, age 75, passed away on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at her home. Donna was initially diagnosed with breast cancer in September of 1989. After being a 27-year survivor, in September of 2016 she was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, of which she battled her remaining years.

Donna was born on Aug. 15, 1946, in Wausau, Wis., to Edward and Ella (Palesch) Traska. She graduated from Wausau Newman High School and received a bachelor's degree in French Education from Wisconsin State University at Eau Claire. Upon graduation, she taught at Manitowoc, Portage, and Madison Edgewood before beginning her 18-year career at Monona Grove High School from 1983 until her retirement in 2001. While at MG, every three years she sponsored a student three-week trip to France, and one trip to Quebec. Her love of the French language and French culture was on display in many aspects of her life.

Donna was an avid reader, crossword puzzle solver and tennis and pickleball player. She especially enjoyed watching professional tennis (Roger Federer, her favorite). She delighted in breakfasts and lunches with friends. She enjoyed traveling to Europe and the French islands in the Caribbean, including St. Martin, Martinique and Guadeloupe (her favorite). Donna was a member of St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, Monona.

Donna always met her challenges head on, especially dealing with cancer, which emphasized her strength, character and determination. Her dignity and grace and ability to make everyone feel appreciated were an inspiration to all her family and friends. She immensely enjoyed her grandchildren and made every attempt to attend all their events and activities.

Donna is survived by her husband of 24 years, Jim; sons, Jon (Tamara) Melone and Tony Melone; grandchildren, Dominic, Mario, Giulliette and Ella; Jim's children, Chris (Tami), Susen (Brian Sandwick) and Kathy; grandchildren, Hope, Will, Max, Mary and Adam; and her sister, Debbie Bacon. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 3 p.m. on Thursday, June 30, 2022, with the Rev. Elisa Brandt presiding. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Thursday.

Memorials may be gifted in Donna’s name to the American Cancer Society, Doctors Without Borders or St. Stephen’s Food Pantry.

The family wishes to thank the staff at the SSM Health Cancer Care for all of their wonderful care given to Donna.

At the end of a pickleball match, Donna would always say to her opponents, “Well played.” That is Donna’s legacy - her life was well-played.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Donna M Schroeder

August 15, 1946 - June 22, 2022

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