Albena Donovan

Donovan

Albena "Bena"

(nee Richie)

Age 96

Of Ecumen Seasons of Maplewood, MN formerly of St. Paul, passed away May 17, 2023. Born April 28, 1927, she is preceded in death by her parents John and Rose Ricci, husband Daniel, brothers and sister Mary Kelcher, Frank Ricci, Richard Ritchie, Bernice Swanson, Carmel Ricci, and Rose Mary Baregi, as well as her three cousins who lived with their family, Antoinette (Mudiette) Cocchiarella, Archie Richie, and Carmen Richie, and sister-in-law Connie (Merlyn) Krussell. She is survived by her 7 children, Dennis (Cindy), Kathy (Jim Henk), Patrick, Michael (Ann), Kevin (Rosilene), Shawn (Lara), Daniel (Amy), as well as 19 grandchildren, and 25 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Pat Ricci, her sister Anna Mae Parker, her sister-in-law Angeline (Emil Kucera) and many nieces and nephews. A lifelong resident of St. Paul's Eastside, Bena graduated from Johnson High School in 1944. She married in 1948, and was wed to her husband Daniel just short of their 70th anniversary. She was a member of St. Patrick's parish for 70 years, and was active in her church. She coached several female sports teams, and participated in softball as a pitcher in her youth, and later, bocce ball tournaments and golf. Her first priority was her family but in addition she worked at Western Electric, Viking Drill, Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, as well as waitressing at many restaurants, and retired from Prom Catering. Her Passion was music, dancing, and being with her family and friends. She was very close with her siblings. She enjoyed all the Holidays with cooking and baking for her family. She and Dan loved to travel to visit their children, and enjoyed going to the casinos. She loved shopping, especially for her grandchildren when she found a good sale. She also loved finding a bargain at a garage sale or estate sale. Bena was the ultimate host, always offering something to eat or drink to anyone who visited her home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at 11:00 am at the CHURCH OF ST. PATRICK'S, 1095 Desoto St, St Paul, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment Union Cemetery. The family would like to thank the 4th floor care team at St. John's Hospital.