On July 10, 2023, Donna McManus passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family and friends, including her loving husband Rick Stimpfle. She died after a year-and-a-half-long battle with cancer.

Donna was born in 1952 as the middle child of a family of nine children in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Donna’s parents, Brad and Lois (née Bebout), who had married while serving in World War II, set the tone for family life with their good-natured personalities and playful antics. At the center of this boisterous family, Donna formed close bonds with everyone. She remained a devoted daughter and sister throughout her life and spent long stretches of time taking care of family members who needed help. 

Donna enjoyed a long career as a software engineer after graduating from Drexel University, 1975. She worked for Apollo, HP, Lotus, and IBM/Rational, among other companies, finding success at a time when few women worked in the software industry. Donna, humble by nature, was quiet about that accomplishment and others.

Donna eventually moved to New England and, in 1995, settled in Arlington, MA. In 1997, Donna met her husband, Rick. They married in 1998 on the dunes of Crane Beach on a gorgeous October day. Donna and Rick enjoyed many adventures together, including multi-day kayaking trips in Alaska, trips to Europe, and frequent day trips to Plum Island and Crane Beach. They also enjoyed hikes/walks, book club sessions, and supper clubs with a wide circle of kind friends. 

When Donna became sick with cancer, Rick dedicated himself to her care, which allowed her to spend her final months and days in the comfort of her own home. With Rick’s unwavering support, Donna faced the pain and uncertainty of her illness with grace and courage.

Donna lived a good life in a loving way. She will be missed deeply. She is survived by her husband Rick, seven of her siblings, lots of nieces and nephews, and her cat, Sophie.

A celebration of Donna’s life will be held at a future date.