Donna M. Svrluga

Donna M. Svrluga (Hanson) of Hingham, formerly of Brookline, Newton and Cambridge, died February 4, 2015 at the age of 77.

Donna was born n Astoria and raised in Hayti and Clear Lake, South Dakota. After her children were born, Donna returned to school and earned a master’s degree in counseling and guidance at the University of Arizona. Later, while living in Germany from 1978-81, Donna served in several capacities including on a project through the University of Maryland that focused on integrating women into the U.S. military. After returning to the States with her family, she once again decided to further her education and attended Smith College in Northampton where she earned a master’s degree in social work. Following receipt of her MSW, Donna had a 20+ year career as a clinical therapist/social worker.  Initially she worked in a community counseling center in Watertown.  She then worked for a number of years at Framingham State College in the student counseling center.  Eventually, she transitioned to private practice in Brookline. In the early 1990’s. Donna and her husband Dick created a private family foundation, the Svrluga Foundation, supporting non-profit organizations including those that strengthen at risk families. Donna served as Director of the Svrluga Foundation. 

She was the beloved wife of Richard C. Svrluga of Hingham. Loving mother of Sara Sullivan and husband Paul of Cohasset and Krista Tomlinson and husband Tom of Scituate. Cherished grandmother of Sam and Jake Sullivan and Benjamin Tomlinson. Sister of Jon Hanson of FL, Peggy Johnson of SD, and Susan Ward of MN. Sister in law of William Svrluga of MN and Judy Quimby of CA.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the visiting hours on Monday Feb 16th from 9-11 AM in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St. (off Central St.), HINGHAM followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Paul’s Church, Hingham at 11:30 AM.

Donations in memory of Donna may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assn., MA Chapter, 480 Pleasant St., Watertown, MA 02472.