Donna Deveau

Norwich — Donna Maureene Dieckmann Deveau of Norwich passed away July 25, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Donna was born June 30, 1932, in Quincy, Ill., to the late Lester and Lydia (Showers) Dieckmann.

Her father’s naval service brought the family to Groton, and they eventually settled in Noank, upon his retirement. Donna graduated from Fitch High School and worked in the family’s restaurant built by her father and brothers, The Seahorse, after school and on weekends. She married the love of her life, Dennis F. Deveau, on Aug. 5, 1950, at St. Patrick’s Church in Mystic. He predeceased her July 6, 1997.

After their three children were born, Donna and Dennis moved their family from Mystic to Pawcatuck, and became innkeepers of the Morgan Inn for many years. Donna was the ultimate hostess and enjoyed welcoming guests and ensuring their comfort. Dennis’ work took the family to Canada in the late 1960s, as well as several other states finally settling in Somers, where Donna enjoyed a thriving 30-year career in real estate. She prided herself in giving her clients her utmost attention to every detail, making her a sought-after agent. Upon retiring and the loss of her beloved Dennis, Donna made her home with her daughter, Janice and her son-in-law, Daniel Dennis, settling in Norwich.

Donna is survived by her daughter Janice L. Dennis and her twin sons, Ronald R. Deveau (Wichittra), and Donald D. Deveau. She was predeceased by her son-in-law Daniel R. Dennis Jr. in February of this year. She was also predeceased by her brothers, Lester Dieckmann Jr. and Ronald Dieckmann. Donna was a beloved grandmother to Daniel (Esther), Thomas (Dawn) Dennis and Colleen Dennis Sullivan; Christina Deveau Powell, Ronald Jr. (Kelsey) and Nancy Deveau; Matthew (Jennifer) and Joshua (Brittany) Deveau. She was a beloved “GG” to Amelia, Trevor, Jace, Daniel IV, Thomas, Caroline and Christopher Dennis; Brendan, Jack, Seamus and Joaquin Sullivan; Chandler and Brooks Clayton; Adalyn and Rylee Deveau; Jillian and Carl Mangold; and Skylar Deveau and Devon Mercado. Donna will also be greatly missed by Michelle Dennis and James Sullivan. Donna leaves several nieces and nephews. She will be especially missed by her canine companion Gabby.

Services and burial will be private. The Mystic Funeral Home is handling Donna’s arrangements.