Invite friends and family to read the obituary and add memories.
We'll notify you when service details or new memories are added.
You're now following this obituary
We'll email you when there are updates.
Select your format and elements to print
Edgar Ralph
Donatelli
Jun 27, 1933 — Jul 22, 2026
Edgar was a simple man, kind, friendly, patient, funny, living his life to serve others. His foundation in faith began with his parents and 18 years in the Catholic School system, culminating with his master's in social work from Loyola University. He began his social work career at Catholic Charities/Social Services in Omaha, NE and then in Grand Rapids, Ml. Later becoming Director of the YMCA Boys Home in Johnston, IA, finishing up in Substance Abuse Counseling at Turning Point and Muskegon Child and Family Services. He valued making a difference in the lives of others.
Ed pursued, and with much persistence, eventually won over, the heart of Mary Ann Micek (Mickey) the love of his life. They were blessed with nearly 68 years of beautiful marriage. He was a loving father to his children. He enjoyed his grandchildren and was ever-present at their music, sports, theatre and other events. He shared with them his great sense of humor and contagious laugh. He shared his love of music with all and enjoyed his banjo, guitar and celebrating others with his ukulele.
Ed lived his life according to his faith. Nourishing himself with daily mass for many years, adoration, and daily rosary praying with Mary Ann. He was unwavering and not easily rattled by challenges of earthly life knowing that living his life for God was most important. During his college acting days, while playing the role of the Aunt in Charlie's Aunt, the part called for him to light a cigarette; he also accidentally set his wig on fire. He simply tossed the wig down, stamped it out and continued - that was how he rolled.
He loved serving others in the church and was involved in St. Andrew Catholic School Board in the 60's, made a Cursio and participated in the Stephen's ministry program at St. Paul the Apostle. He enjoyed singing in the choir at church. Later in life he was blessed to serve as a sacristan for St. Paul's and St. Andrew's Cathedral.
He kept himself in shape by running, walking, and lifting weights. He enjoyed bowling but his ultimate sport was "do over" golf.
Edgar was preceded in death by his parents Ferdinand and Marie Donatelli, siblings Anthony, Florian, Margaret and Anna Mae, Brother in laws Robert Dvorak, William McCauley and Nephew Scott Dvorak; In-Laws Barney and Dora Micek, brothers-in-law, Fr. Sylvester Micek, OFM, James and Caroline Micek, Frank Micek and Rita Micek, Chester Micek, sister-in-law, Alice Hoff; Nephew Terry Micek and Nieces Janet Kleveland and Karen Maurstad. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann, daughters Mary Rose Donatelli-Elliott (Tim) and Elisa Prusko, His sister, Genevieve Dvorak. His in laws Jerry and Sheri Micek, and many cousins, nieces and nephews, Grandchildren Erik Prusko, Dr. Ryan Prusko (fiancée Dr. Jovana Hanna), Alina Prusko, Sean Prusko and their father, John Prusko. Extended family Nhan (Phil) Nguyen, Kristine Phan-Nguyen and their children Erik Nguyen and family, Derek Nguyen, Andrew Nguyen, Snjezana and Ivan Nikolic, Matea Pejic, Marina Nikolic and special buddy George.
Ed's family will greet relatives and friends during visitation at Zaagman Memorial Chapel (2800 Burton St. SE, 49546) on Friday, August 21, from 4-6 pm, concluding with a Rosary at 6 pm. A celebration of Ed's life will be held during a Memorial Mass at St. Paul the Apostle Parish (2750 Burton St. SE, 49546) at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 22, 2026, with Rev. Peter Damian as celebrant.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Paul the Apostle / Daniel J. Donelly Endowment Fund ( https://spagr.org/school/about-us/endowment/ ), Adelante Youth Mission ( https://www.adelanteyouthmission.org/donate.html ), or Right to Life of Michigan ( https://rtl.org/ ).
Friday
Zaagman Memorial Chapel
4:00 - 6:00 pm
*Rosary @ 6:00 pm
Saturday
St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church
Starts at 11:00 am
Visits: 0
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors