Donna G. (Phillips) Fraelich, 84, of Kipton, passed away Saturday, April 26, 2025 at Stein Hospice Care Center after a sudden illness.

She was born on September 1, 1940 in Willard, Ohio to Donald and Genette (Wheeler) Phillips.

Donna was born and raised on her family’s farm in North Fairfield where she undoubtedly developed a deep appreciation for nature and lifelong learning; values that shaped both her personal life and future professional career. She graduated from North Fairfield High School and BGSU. Donna dedicated the majority of her teaching career to inspiring students as a science teacher at Western Reserve. Following her retirement, she continued to share her love of learning by teaching at Monroeville St. Joe and later returning to Western Reserve as a substitute teacher and teacher’s aide. She firmly believed that the best learning happens through nature and exploration. Donna also shared her passion with young people during her time working at Common Ground’s Summer Day Camps and embarked on many exciting journeys around the world, always seeking new adventures and knowledge.

Above all, Donna loved her family deeply. She took great joy in watching her grandchildren grow and was a constant presence at their events and activities, offering her unwavering support and warm encouragement. Donna’s life was one of curiosity, dedication, and adventure. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Donna is survived by her daughters; Karin (Aaron) Thompson, Michelle (Daniel) Stieber, sons; Michael Fraelich, Ken (Heather) Fraelich, 11 grandchildren; Derek, Ian, Alex, Sean, Duncan, Kirsten, Hannah, Blake, Brexton, Korissa, Connor, 2 great grandchildren; Isabella, Payslee, sisters; Margaret Seitz, Ann Woodruff, Kathy Carpenter; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

In addition to her parents, Donna was preceded in death by her husband Robert Fraelich in 2014, son; Christopher in infancy.

A funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 9:45 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 66 Chapel Street, Monroeville, where Donna was a member, with Rev. Ronald Schock presiding. A private burial will take place in Camden Cemetery.

Those wishing to contribute to Donna 's memory may do so to St Joseph Catholic Schools, Monroeville, or to Common Ground’s Summer Scholarships, Oberlin, OH (https://commongroundcenter.org/donation-page).

Toft Funeral Home, Wakeman Chapel, 16 Cooper Street, Wakeman, is handling arrangements. Condolences may be shared online at toftfuneralhome.com.