What began as a self-defense course and kickboxing class turned into a lifelong passion for martial arts. Four years after starting karate classes, Donna Klucevsek had advanced enough to begin teaching others herself. Today, she is the owner of Feisty Lion Martial Arts Studio in Sandwich, where she teaches karate, women’s boxing, Tai Chi, and more.
Donna’s entrepreneurial journey came with an unexpected challenge. The day after signing the papers to purchase her studio in Merchants Square, the world shut down during the pandemic. While the timing was far from ideal, Donna used the quiet months intentionally, carefully shaping the design and vision for her business while also dedicating more time to helping care for her mother.
Born in Dorchester and raised in Readville, Hyde Park, and later Westwood, Donna has fond memories of childhood Sundays spent on Cape Cod with her family. They would pile into the car and spend entire days at the beach swimming and digging for clams, periwinkles, and conchs. Today, Donna and her husband of 48 years proudly call the Cape home. They have three adult children and six grandchildren.
Before opening Feisty Lion, Donna owned DM Designs and generously volunteered with a variety of organizations. Her connection to Decatur House began when her mother, Tilly Cardinale, became a resident. Donna started teaching Tai Chi and Qigong breathing classes for residents, and those visits soon turned into lasting friendships.
Even after her mother’s passing, Donna continues volunteering because of the special bonds she had formed within the Decatur House community. One particularly meaningful moment came when Donna was honored by Professor Pierre Rene’s Martial Arts History Hall of Fame. She chose to celebrate her first award with her Decatur House friends, who proudly shared in the occasion and offered heartfelt congratulations.
Outside the studio, Donna enjoys creative pursuits like pottery and adventurous activities including travel, snorkeling, swimming with stingrays, and even skydiving.
These days, Donna balances family caregiving, running her business, and volunteering at Decatur House. She is also living proof of the benefits of staying active and engaged throughout life. Reflecting on her martial arts journey, Donna said with a smile, “I only wish I had started sooner.”
Thank you, Donna, for everything you do for the Decatur House community!
