Donna Jean Miller

Donna Jean Miller passed away on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the age of 79. Beloved Wife for a loving 57 years to Ronald J. Lech. Devoted Mother of Stephen (Kiara) Lech, Linnea (Jerry) Jones and Daniel (Skylar Geiger) Miller-Lech. Loving Daughter of the late Donald A. & the late Myrtle L., nee Hummel, Miller. Fond Grandmother of Solomon, Esther, Jacob, Addison, Axl and Avianna. Dear Aunt of many Nieces & Nephews. Loving Cousin of Sally Miller, Jennifer Darcy and T.J. Deel. Loving Best Friend of the late Ann (Rick) Johnston, Betty (Joe) Sharp, the late Francine Murr, Bob Prischman and Arlene Kuhn.

She grew up in Lombard, IL with her loving parents. She spent many summers on Little Glen Lake spending time with family, and there she acquired a love of the natural world. She had an adventurous side and took many trips including to Germany, Alaska (in a 1967 VW Beetle), Colorado (skiing), Grand Canyon, and the Pacific Northwest. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore always had a special place in her heart throughout her adult life where she enjoyed spending time with family, kayaking, hiking, wine tasting, and watching beautiful sunsets. 

She married the love of her life, Ron Lech, in 1969. Together they had three kids and she found great joy in raising them. She gave them great experiences from visits in downtown Chicago to time spent in nature teaching them in what she called “the school of life”. Eventually she became known as “Nana” to her six grandchildren.

Donna had a wonderful and fulfilling career in physical therapy helping elderly people regain capability and independence in-home for almost thirty years. During this time she connected with so many people in a meaningful way and was always excited to share their stories. 

Donna had a life well lived. She loved and was loved by so many people in her life. Though her physical presence is gone, her memory lives on in the hearts of countless people who were blessed by her love, laughter, and good natured spirit. She will be dearly missed, but her memory will live on forever.

Family and Friends are to gather for the Visitation on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Russo’s Hillside Chapels, 4500 Roosevelt Road, Hillside, Illinois 60162 (Located between Mannheim & Wolf). Funeral to follow on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Russo’s Hillside Chapels. A Chapel Service of Christian Burial to be celebrated promptly at 11:00 a.m. Interment at Assumption Catholic Cemetery, Wheaton. For additional information please call (708) 449-5300.

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