Donna Marie Calles, age 71, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, in her Albuquerque home, surrounded by her two sons. She was born on September 1, 1954, in Long Island, New York, to Philip Frances Bonacorsa and Dorothy May Bonacorsa. Some of her friends affectionately knew her as “Murph,” a nickname that reflected her warmth and humor.

Donna grew up on Long Island and graduated from Syosset High School in 1972. She later made New Mexico her home and earned an associate degree from the University of New Mexico and eventually a bachelor’s degree from National American University. Donna dedicated 30 years of service to UNM Hospital, beginning her career as a medical transcriptionist. She later returned to school to become a certified medical coder and retired in 2023. She was known for her work ethic, adept spelling, and commitment to her profession.

Donna lived a life filled with curiosity, physical activity, and humor. She was an avid baker who was best known for her apple galettes, cheesecakes, and chocolate chip cookies. Her desserts were a highlight at family gatherings and celebrations. She loved running and spent many years participating in 5K and 10K races, winning numerous trophies. She proudly represented the Albuquerque Roadrunners, where she also volunteered when she was no longer able to compete.

Donna had a deep appreciation for the Southwest landscape and especially loved its cactus and desert scenery. Her home reflected this love through the artwork she collected, much of it created by local New Mexico artists or inspired by the region’s richness. She took great pride in keeping her Taylor Ranch neighborhood beautiful and always picked up trash during her daily walks. She also had a strong compassion for animals, as several backyard cats became beloved pets, including her cherished Kitty Schmitty.

Her interests were wide-ranging and reflected her curious spirit. She enjoyed gem and stone collecting, archaeology, mysteries, and the unexplained. She also had a particular fascination with Bigfoot and Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon, which always brought a spark of humor and wonder to conversations. She had a lifelong love of live music and never missed an opportunity to see her favorite musicians, including The Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, Michael McDonald, Acoustic Alchemy, Joni Mitchell, and James Taylor. She passed this passion for music on to her sons.

Donna faced ovarian cancer with strength, resilience, and grace. Throughout her illness, she remained connected to the people and passions that brought her joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Philip and Dorothy Bonacorsa, her grandmother, Clara Gaal, and her brother, Phillip “Tippy” Bonacorsa. She is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Paula and Dale Phagan, her sons, Ryan Calles and Matthew “Nick” Byers and his wife Amy Perenchio, Ryan’s father, Ambrose Calles, Matthew’s father, James Byers, her niece and nephew-in-law, Lauren and David Blackmon, and her niece and nephew-in-law, Karen and John Tyreman.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Donna’s treatment team at the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center, Specialists, and to her many friends who supported her throughout her illness. Your kindness, visits, rides to appointments, and efforts to help her feel like herself meant more than words can express.

If you wish to honor Donna’s memory, donations may be made to the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center “Giving Hope” or Animal Humane New Mexico.