Donna Trites

Donna Jeanne “Nonna” Sighel-Trites, a woman of Catholic faith and a beloved homemaker and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026, in Merriam, Kansas, at the age of 78. Born on August 8, 1947, in Pittsburg, Kansas, Donna brought love and humor to everyone she encountered—a trait she kept until the very end.

Donna graduated with honors from Pittsburg State University with a degree in office administration. During her college years, she was proud to serve as President of the Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority, where she made lifelong friendships and honed her leadership skills.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Donna’s greatest joy came from spoiling her grandkids and spending quality time with her family. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her human family; she was passionate about rescuing animals and advocating for their welfare.

Her creativity was evident in her love for restoring heirlooms, a testament to her deep appreciation for history and family legacy. Donna had a green thumb and took great pride in nurturing her house plants. She had a memory like a steel trap and remained sharp as a tack until the very end. To her grandsons’ occasional chagrin, it was nearly impossible to get anything past her.

She was an active member of her community, serving as an officer in the PTA at Crestview Elementary and supporting local education as a member of the booster club for the Shawnee Mission North Indians.

Preceded in death by her parents, Margaret “Honey” Cattelino-Sighel and Don Sighel, and her nephew Tony Sighel, Donna is survived by her loving family: her brother Tom Sighel (Janice); her three sons, Mike Trites (Audra), Brent Trites, and Kevin Trites (Sally); the boys’ father, Richard Trites and her honorary son, Anthony Jackson. She is also survived by her grandsons, Andrew Trites (Aubrey), Alex Trites (Madeleine), AJ Trites, and Davis Trites; and her great-granddaughter, Rita Trites.

In accordance with her wishes, Donna will be cremated, and a celebration of her extraordinary life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ASPCA or The Chicopee Foundation in her memory, honoring her commitment to animal welfare and the community she loved.

Donna’s enduring spirit, infectious laughter, and vivid storytelling will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know her. Her generosity, love, and unwavering dedication to her family will be missed but never forgotten. She leaves behind a legacy that her family and friends are truly proud of.