Donna B. Dow

Donna Louise Borland Dow, 72, passed away April 21, 2021. She was born December 12, 1948 in McKeesport, PA, the daughter of Norris H. and Tillie (Peters) Borland.

Donna graduated from McKeesport Area Senior High School, class of 1966, and went on to study nursing at Presbyterian-University School of Nursing, class of 1969, only the first of several post-secondary degrees she would earn, including two Masters degrees. From there, Donna went on to work for Dr. Bernard Fisher as Protocol Coordinator in breast cancer research, which she considered one of her most important accomplishments due to the effect their work had on the treatment of breast cancer. It was also a key part of her lifelong belief in the value of medical research, which led her to several years of work with the Pittsburgh Cancer Institute as well. She later worked for many years for Highmark BCBS, and retired from Novartis in 2017.

When she wasn't working or spending time with her family, Donna enjoyed volunteering, especially with children as in her work encouraging girls to study STEM with the AAUW and helping children deal with grief through Highmark's A Caring Place. When she was diagnosed with cancer the worst thing for her was that it limited her ability to volunteer due to health risks, although she continued to donate and help where she was able. She particularly enjoyed helping with fundraising events. She also enjoyed traveling and particularly looked forward to attending Sheldon Calvary Camp every summer, where she sometimes worked as camp nurse.

She joins her husband, John T. Dow, her parents, her brother Norris H Borland Jr., and her beloved nephew Steven Karras. Waiting for her at the Rainbow Bridge will be Foxy, Pirate, Azzy, and several other beloved pets.

Donna is survived by her son Ernst and his wife Linda, of New Palestine, IN; her daughter Kristine and her partner Gopi of Pittsburgh, PA; three grandchildren, Erika, Luke, and Raphael, and her sister Florence and her husband Steve, of Plum, PA; nephews Trevor and Lance. She will also be missed by many friends.

Friends welcome 2-7PM, THURSDAY, April 29, 2021, WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE (412-563-2800) 1650 Greentree Rd, Scott Twp 15220. Brief private service to follow. Due to the pandemic, the family plans on a memorial gathering in Donna's honor once it is safe to do so. If you would like to be notified when these plans are made please email ddowmemorial@gmail.com with your contact details. Donations in her honor may be sent to No Kid Hungry.

www.slaterfuneral.com