Donna K. Barracato

Donna Barracato, age 87, walked into the light on June 6, 2025.

Donna was born at home on January 2, 1938, in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Michael and Margaret (Kowchak) Pinchot. At the age of 20, Donna married her high school sweetheart, Al Barracato. They moved to Akron and raised three children together. She and Al were also partners in establishing and owning Adolph Optical Service for over 25 years.

Donna was involved at the grass roots level of the Akron Rape Crisis Center, served as a member of WITAN for over 30 years, and enjoyed her many years of volunteering at Stan Hywet Hall. She had a passion for cooking and entertaining, a natural eye for decorating, a curiosity of feng shui and reiki, and a great thirst for medical knowledge. Donna will be remembered for her loving heart, elegant style, bold eyewear, and beautiful nails. She exuded grace, class, and warmth. She was kind and genuine in a way that made everyone feel like family.

Affectionately known as Baba, she was the foundation of our family, showing us strength, courage, and graciousness. She delighted in watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow up. What brought her the most joy was her love for Al and their life together for over 70 years.

Donna will be deeply missed by her husband, Al; her children: Bill Barracato, Tom (Tina) Barracato, and Patty (Peter) Geise, all of Akron; her grandchildren: Emily (Jeremiah), Tommy (Mindy), Amanda (Brandon), Will, Nick (Kelly), Hannah (Jack), Alex A, Allie Marie, and Alex B; and 11 wonderful great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Jack (Joyce) and brother-in-law Charles Jr. and was preceded in death by two brothers: Jim (Phyllis) and Mickey (Marcia).

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 10th from 4:00-9:00pm at Chestnut Lodge in Sand Run park.

Services in care of Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd. Fairlawn, OH 44333.