Husband of Waterford murder victim thanks public for support after family tragedy

A fundraiser launched to support the family of a Waterford mother has raised thousands within two weeks

Yveta Donovalova, a 43-year-old mother-of-three, was found with serious injuries in her home at Grange Heights, Waterford city, on April 27.

The “heartbroken” husband of a slain Waterford woman has thanked the public for their support at "this incredibly difficult time".

Yveta Donovalova, a 43-year-old mother of three, was found with serious injuries at her home in Grange Heights on April 27.

A man, Tomas Marvanek, 39, has been charged with her murder.

Her husband, Robert Donoval, said: “Our three children have lost their mother, and the pain we feel cannot be put into words.” 

A GoFundMe set up to support the family had raised almost 90% of its €20,000 target within 13 days, reaching €17,665 by Tuesday morning.

“We are heartbroken to share that my beloved wife was taken from us far too soon,” Mr Donoval wrote on the page.

“In this incredibly difficult time, we would like to express our deepest gratitude for the financial support that is helping us begin to rebuild our lives. We are overwhelmed by the immense wave of solidarity, kindness, and compassion from all of you.

“May God bless you all. Thank you for bringing hope and light into our lives during our darkest moments.” The fundraiser was established by Marie Donoval in Waterford.

She wrote: “This GoFundMe has been created to support Yveta’s husband and their three children during an unimaginable time.

“Yveta’s life was tragically taken in their family home by someone she knew. This fund will help her loved ones as they navigate the heartbreak and challenges ahead — providing support for immediate needs and helping them begin to rebuild their lives.” 

Ms Donovalova, who was originally from Czechia, had been living in Ireland for almost 20 years.

She worked as a cleaner and was well known locally.

Tributes posted on RIP.ie described Ms Donovalova as “a special person, kind, hardworking and so genuine”.

One mourner wrote that Ms Donovalova “was so warm and kind to us all and always [had] a smile on her face especially when she spoke about her children”.

“Yveta was a ray of sunshine in Grange Heights. A lovely woman, a kind neighbour and a great mother. She will be hugely missed.”

To donate, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/yveta-donovalova.