Donna M. Wyshak
Entrepreneur and trendsetting floral designer
Donna M. Wyshak of Chestnut Hill, formerly of Beacon Hill, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday morning, October 22, 2024 in her home at the age of 79.
Born in Boston on August 31,1945 in Boston, the daughter of the late Toffy Wyshak and Georgette (Marchi) Wyshak, she was a graduate of Watertown High School with the Class of 1964; Donna then attended the Rittner Floral School of Design in Boston.
With a passion for floral design and a love for creating beautiful things, Donna began an illustrious career in the floral industry. An entrepreneur and trendsetting designer, she opened the Florist Shop at the Meridian Hotel. With a reputation for being one of the best in the business, she then went on to open the Ritz-Carlton Floral Shop on Newbury Street. Throughout the years, Donna mentored so many in the present day business and free lanced for several local florists.
Donna was an example to us all as she dealt with health issues for many years. She inspired those around her with positivity. Donna will be remembered and missed by her family and friends for her kindness and compassion for others, often putting their concerns ahead of her own.
Donna is survived by her sisters; Joyce Cahaly (the late Richard) of Falmouth; and Georgette Wyshak of Belmont; her nieces and nephews: Richard F. “Rick” Cahaly Jr. and his wife, Pamela of Belmont, Joy A. Cahaly of Boston and Scott M. Cahaly of Somerville; Andrea Saber of Medfield and Christopher Hadge of Woburn; and her great nieces and nephews: Christina Cahaly, Madison Saber, Savannah Saber, James Cahaly and Sloane Saber. In addition, she is survived by many close dear friends and colleagues. She was predeceased by her beloved sister, Valarie Hadge and her former husband, Joseph Bevilacqua.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to may make contributions in Donna’s memory to the Church of St. John of Damascus, 300 West St., Dedham MA 02026 Web: http://www.stjohnd.org or Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, at danafarber.org.