Donna J. McKune, 85, of Forest Park, formerly of Oak Park, died in her home on April 13, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was a force of nature, literally, taking great pride in her immaculate vegetable and flower garden, which she tended with obsession, and her backyard was a haven for every variety of bird. She was also engaged with her neighbors and friends, and advocated for her community, most recently and notably through her commitment to keeping gambling machines out of Forest Park. She never missed an opportunity to participate in efforts to make things better. Sometimes with family and sometimes solo, she enjoyed road trips across the country, crossword puzzles, and games. Her strong and independent nature followed her well into her final days. Her grandchildren will always cherish the “game closet” and hours spent playing mancala on her living room floor. Her children and grandchildren know best that she is likely reading this obituary to ensure that all grammar is correct — just like she taught us.
Donna was the loving mother of three sons, grandmother of six, and great-grandmother of three. She is survived by her three sons: Paul (Barbara Hersh) McKune, Patrick (Julie) McKune, and Michael (Kelly Anchors) McKune; her grandchildren, Marhysa (Joshua) Ott, Erinn (JJ) Donohue, Joseph McKune, Veronica (Rachel) McKune, Max McKune, and Charlie McKune; her great-grandchildren Braden McKune, Willow Ott, and Brynn Donohue; her siblings, Barbara (the late Sam) Vaccaro, John (Nancy), and Nick (Marianne); and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Margaret Fabbrini, and her sisters, Dolores Vine and Mary Fabbrini.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, April 15 from 10 to 11:30 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 11:30 at Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home, 7319 Madison St., Forest Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Forest Park Arts Alliance www.forestparkarts.org are appreciated.