Donatella M. Aceto

HERKIMER – Mrs. Donatella M. Aceto, a lifelong resident of Herkimer, New York, passed away on Monday, December 8th, 2025, at Wynn Hospital just a day after her 90th birthday.

Born on December 7th, 1935, in Herkimer, New York, Donnie was the daughter of the late Antonio and Jennie (Colonna) Angelicchio. She grew up in Herkimer, where her roots ran deep, and on August 11, 1962, she began a beautiful journey of love and partnership when she married her soulmate, Michael Aceto. Together, they nurtured a loving marriage for 63 wonderful years.

Family was the heart of Donnie’s world. She showered her loved ones with unwavering affection, embodying the role of a caring wife and devoted mother. A proud member of Sts. Anthony & Joseph Church, Donnie’s faith played a central role in her life. Throughout her years, she worked in various local establishments, including Duofold, the HCCC cafeteria, and Big Jim's Sub Shop, all while cherishing moments spent with family, reveling in trips to the casino, and watching game shows on television in the evenings.

Donnie is survived by her loving husband Michael P. Aceto Sr., along with her beloved children: John (Susan), Marie Elaine, Michele, Michael (Lisa), Thomas (Beth), and Suzanne. She was the proud grandmother of ten grandchildren: Antonio Peter, Giovanni, Gabriel, Bianca, Olivia, Antonio Vito, Angelina, Santino, Isabella, and Dominick, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.

She was preceded in death by her dear siblings and their spouses: Bernard and Josephine Angelicchio, Dominick “Mickey” Angelicchio, Vito and Frances Angelicchio, as well as her sisters and brothers-in-law: Lucy and Arminio Lidano, Louise and John Gardinier, Rose and Stanley Nobles, Antoinette Angelicchio, and Genevieve “Chick” Angelicchio, each of whose memory she held close to her heart.

Donnie also leaves behind a wide circle of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and in-laws, all of whom will miss her kind spirit and warm smile.

Funeral services honoring her life will take place on Saturday, December 13th, 2025, starting at 10:15 AM at The Enea Family Funeral Home located at 220 North Washington Street, Herkimer, followed by an 11:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Family Parish Church, corner of East Main & John Streets in Little Falls. The family will gather for interment in the spring of 2026 at Calvary Cemetery in Herkimer.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during calling hours on Friday, December 12th, 2025, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the funeral home on North Washington Street in Herkimer. 

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Donnie’s memory may consider making a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital by visiting www.stjude.org.

To leave a note of sympathy and share memories, please visit the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com.

Donatella M. Aceto will be forever remembered for her kindness, love, and the immeasurable joy she brought to those around her.

Enea, Ciaccia, & Applegate Funeral Directors (315) 866-1011.