Donna S. VerPlanck born 2 July, 1946 in Brooklyn, NY to parents Nathaniel K. and Sylvia Wernick, died 16 June, 2019, at home on Mercer Island. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, James F. VerPlanck, and daughters Kimberly L. Tabor of Miami, FL, and Joy A. VerPlanck of Grass Lake, MI. 3 grand-daughters, a great-grandson, and sister Wendy Wernick of Stratford, CT.

Donna had been a Mercer Island resident since 1986, and began working at Mercer Island Country Day School in 1987 where she first was the Story Lady, reading favorite books to young children, and soon thereafter began teaching pre-school and/or kindergarten classes. Although she had many other jobs during her working career, teaching young children was her true vocation. Remembrances may be made in her name to Providence Hospice of Seattle, whose team of doctors, nurses and service personnel provided outstanding care during her final weeks.