Donna's obituary
Donna Bezdecheck (née Burt), born on March 15, 1954, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on August 31, 2019, after battling a rare autoimmune disorder. Despite her illness, her final years were happy and active. As we mark five years since her passing, we want to publicly honor and remember the extraordinary person she was.
A lifelong Sacramento resident, Donna was a graduate of Foothill High School and was married since 1974 to Vincent Bezdecheck, who predeceased her in 2012. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Lyle and Maxine Burt. Donna was the heart and soul of her large extended family, always putting them first and serving as the glue that brought both sides together.
Known for her fairness and her unwavering desire to make the world a kinder, more inclusive place. Donna dedicated the entirety of her career to the California State Department of Education, where her colleagues affectionately called her “Saint Donna” for her compassionate nature. Her daughters meanwhile lovingly referred to her as their “Angel Mom” for her remarkable pure heartedness.
Donna and her husband Vincent were also known for their hard work in restoring their beautiful historic home in Midtown Sacramento, a testament to their dedication and love for preserving history.
Her commitment to her children was illustrated by the fact that she was on a first-name basis with her kids’ teachers, always actively involved in their education and well-being.
Donna is survived by her twin daughters, Heather Bezdecheck and Bethany (Bezdecheck) Burrous, her son, Elliott Bezdecheck, and her cherished granddaughters, Evangeline and Catalina Burrous. She is also survived by two of her three siblings, Sandra Schultz and Don Burt, while her brother Larry Burt predeceased her.
Donna is deeply missed by her family and friends, who will forever treasure the memories of her selfless and loving spirit. There is no doubt that she is a powerful guardian angel to many.