Donna Marie Kachura - Obituary

onna Marie Kachura, beloved mother, grandmother, educator, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, at the age of 76 in her home in Mayo, Maryland, after facing a courageous battle with suspected ALS. Born on March 30, 1949, in Easton, Maryland, Donna devoted her life to teaching, learning, and uplifting those around her. She was a graduate of Saints Peter and Paul School, earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland, and received a master’s degree from Loyola University. Donna spent over 25 years teaching kindergarten and first grade at the Little Red Schoolhouse, Crofton Meadows Elementary, and Mayo Elementary. Admired by students, families, and colleagues alike, she was proud to be nominated for the Anne Arundel County Teacher of the Year award. Her passion for education continued through private tutoring, which she offered as long as her health allowed. She was an active member of the Teachers’ Association of Anne Arundel County and embraced adventure and community through her sailing group, Singles on Sailboats. Summers at the Crofton Swim and Tennis Club, family vacations to Ocean City, and close friendships brought her joy. Most of all, she cherished time with her children and grandchildren. Donna is survived by her loving sons: Matthew Kachura (Reisterstown, MD), Daniel Kachura (New Market, MD), and Joshua Kachura (Crownsville, MD); her daughters-in-law Angela Kachura and Suzi Kachura; her brother, Robert Mullikin (Wittman, MD); and her eight beloved grandchildren — Asher, Ellie, Griffin, Marlee, Kellan, Cameron, Hudson, and Logan Kachura — who lovingly knew her as “Onna.” She was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret and Robert Mullikin, and her sisters, Catherine Mullikin and Mary Jo Mullikin. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Donna’s life at a viewing on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 1–3 PM and 5–7 PM at Kalas Funeral Home, 2973 Solomons Island Rd. Edgewater, MD. A Catholic Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Wednesday, May 7, at 11 AM at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 515 Loch Haven Road, Edgewater, MD 21037, followed by burial at Spring Hill Cemetery Annex, North Aurora Street, Easton, MD, at 2 PM. Please keep Donna and her family in your prayers. The family deeply appreciates the love and support shown during this time.