Donika Bardho

Mrs. Donika Bardho, 51 years old, passed away on Thursday, may 19th, 2011. She and a close friend, Mrs. Mariana Spahija, lost their lives due to an automobile accident.

Mrs. Bardho was born October 8th, 1959 in Kolonje, Albania. She had a passion for children and books. For over 20 years, she dedicated her life to these passions through her work as a librarian and an elementary school teacher, which she loved. She was loved and respected by all who knew her.

In 1998, Ms. Bardho and her family immigrated to Dahlonega, Georgia. She worked diligently to make a home for her family in this new foreign country. Shortly after the move she began working for Aramark at North Georgia College and State University. Both her coworkers and the students loved her. She was an honest, hard worker who always had a smile and a word of encouragement for everyone.

Her pride and joy was her family. Donika loved her husband and two children and dedicated her life to making them happy. Her life and actions were a constant source of love, dedication and care for all of those she came into contact with. She was an inspiration and encouragement to her family, friends and coworkers with her friendly, thoughtful manner and willingness to help where needed at anytime.

Her life and memory will live on through her husband of 27 years, Petraq Bardho, daughter Erica and son Gerti; Albanian Community in Dahlonega: Burhan Spahija, his daughter Ada and son Saed; Ali Zajmi, wife Elvira and sons Arlin and Almir Zajmi as well as several others; family Residing in Albania: parents Llazar and Themie Koco; brothers and sisters and their families; numerous cousins.

A fund for the Special Education program at Lumpkin County High School will be established in her memory. The family asks that donations be made to Lumpkin County High School in lieu of flowers. If doing so, please make a note on the check for the Spahija/Bardho fund and mail to 2001 Indian Drive, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533.

A funeral for Mariana Spahija and Donika Bardho will be held at Dahlonega United Methodist Church, Thursday, May 26th at 4:30 pm with internment afterward at Dahlonega Memorial Park Cemetery. The arrangements are being taken care of by Banister Funeral Home.