Peter J. Donatella
Passed: October 11, 2017
- Share:
Peter J. Donatella
Passed: October 11, 2017
Obituary
Peter J. Donatella, age 81 of Phoenix, AZ died October 11, 2017. He was born March 18, 1936 in Teaneck, NJ to Romeo Osvaldo and Mary Julia. Peter was the Arizona Accordion Club co-founder and treasurer. He passed on his love of the accordion by teaching others to play. He was a school teacher for 35 years and loved to teach. Students and parents recognized his abilities and would request his class. Peter is survived by his wife of 29 ½ years, Raye Donatella; four daughters, Terry Rodriguez, Jo Anne Donatella, Patti Donatella, and Eileen Donatella; two sons, Dale Atkinson and Donald Atkinson; 18 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Dana Lane.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, October 17, 2017 at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ.
9 responses to Peter J. Donatella
Jan and Bruce Mundy says:
October 12, 2017
Pete’s wonderful music and kind encouragement of those trying to master the accordion will be sorely missed. He was always professional, showing excellent musicianship, and thoughtful of others in a group. Thankfully, we have his recordings and all the memories of the man which play on in our hearts.
Jo says:
October 15, 2017
Love you Dad
Mary Crocco says:
October 16, 2017
Pete’s private lessons to my son, Bobby Meader, were priceless.
Rose & John Protocollo says:
October 16, 2017
Our sincere sympathy to Raye, and family. Pete was a great man and a wonderful accordion player. We enjoyed his playing while attending the Az. Accordion Club for many years Rest in Peace. John & Rose Protocollo Scottsdale Az
Scott Voss says:
October 17, 2017
My sincerest condolences to Raye and family. Pete was a teacher, mentor, sage and friend to me. Our weekly sessions were filled with lessons about music and, more importantly, life. As I sit in my classroom, I hope that I am able to impact as many people as Pete did, in an equally positive way. I shall always cherish the knowledge and friendship that Pete bestowed upon me.