In Loving Memory of Donna Jean Rocco Stoveken

Donna Jean Rocco Stoveken, lovingly known as “Chubbs,” a nickname given to her by her mom, age 63, of Sayreville, NJ, passed away peacefully at JFK University Medical Center in the early morning hours of October 30, 2026.

Donna was born at St. Peter's Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ, and grew up in Edison, where she graduated from J.P. Stevens High School in 1981. She went on to attend Cittone Business Institute for two years, beginning a career that would take her through several different opportunities. She briefly worked at Merck in Rahway before being given the opportunity to run an office for Just Shirts. She later became a Training Manager for Summit Medical Group, where she dedicated 15 years of her career.

Outside of work, Donna knew how to enjoy life. Donna loved bowling and volleyball, activities she enjoyed alongside her husband, Ed. The two met through a mutual friend and spent several years bowling together before building a life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. When Ed finally proposed, Donna's response was to question whether the ring was real! That little moment perfectly captured her sense of humor and the fun-loving personality everyone knew and loved.

Throughout their 22 years of marriage, Donna and Ed were not only husband and wife but truly best friends. They did everything together and were happiest by each other's side. For more than 30 years, Donna owned a trailer at a campground in Mays Landing, which became a special place for her and Ed to spend weekends camping, entertaining, and making memories with family and friends. Whether enjoying trips to Atlantic City or simply spending time together, they shared a love of life and an inseparable bond. Ed was Donna's partner in everything, her best friend, and the person she shared all of life's adventures with. Their love and friendship created memories that will be cherished forever.

Donna had a personality that was impossible to forget. She was funny, generous, and truly the life of the party. She had a way of making everyone laugh and bringing people together wherever she went. She loved good food, chewing ice, playing games, and above all, winning! Her competitive spirit was something everyone knew and loved about her. Whether gathered around a campsite, spending time with friends, or enjoying a weekend away, Donna made every moment a little more fun.

Over the last several years, Donna faced a long and difficult battle with health issues. Through it all, she showed incredible strength and determination, holding on and fighting through challenges with the strength that those who knew her will always remember.

Donna was predeceased by her beloved parents, Rudolph and Anne Marie Rocco.

She is survived by her loving husband, Edward (Ed) Stoveken; her three sisters, Anne Marie Thomas and her husband, Mike, of Iselin; Linda Hutson and her husband, Donald, of Hazlet; and Deborah Rocco of Edison.

She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Alice Stoveken of Crewe, VA, and Linda Kowal and her husband, Brian, of Woodbridge; and her brother-in-law, George Stoveken and his wife, Natalie, of Edison.

Donna leaves behind her cherished nieces and nephews: Michael and his wife, Lorena, and their children, Emme, Elise, and Everly; Amanda; Ashley and her husband, Rich, and their children, Gino and Giuliana; Brittany; Christopher and his wife, Kitty, and their children, Arthur and Owen; Andrew; Robert and his wife, Katie, and their son, James; Danielle; and Vanessa. She also leaves behind many extended family members and close friends who meant so much to her.

Donna leaves behind countless memories, laughter, and moments that will be treasured forever. Her generosity, competitive spirit, unforgettable sense of humor, and ability to light up a room will never be forgotten.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be at the Flynn and Son/Mitruska Funeral Home, 23 Ford Ave., Fords, NJ 08863 on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 2-7 pm. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 9 am. Interment will follow in Restland Memorial Park in East Hanover.