Peter J. Donlon

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University of New Haven

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Sheehan-Hilborn-Breen Funeral Home

1084 New Britain Avenue

West Hartford, Connecticut

Peter Donlon Obituary

Peter J. Donlon, 59, of West Hartford, husband of Tona D. Donlon died of lung cancer Friday, (March 21, 2003) at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Kingston, NY, son of the late Francis and Florence Donlon and had lived in the West Hartford area for the past 36 years. He graduated from the University of New Haven with a degree in criminal justice and retired from the West Hartford Police Department with a work-related injury in 1989. Peter owned and operated Pete Donlon's Music Team, a disc jockey service, and was also employed by Geico Insurance as an Insurance Investigator. Over the years he served as President of West Hartford Police Union, Vice President of Council 15, Coach of West Hartford Alumni Baseball League, Coach of West Hartford Boys Football Team, Coach of Enfield Lancers Football and Vice President of the Connecticut Loss Prevention Association. His greatest accomplishments were the special and deeply loving relationships he developed with Shannon, Kerry and Tona. Since Peter was outgoing, friendly and lived life passionately, Peter enjoyed the friendship of countless people. Peter will live on through the laughter and smiles he brought to those who knew him. Peter was a wonderful and devoted father to his two daughters, Shannon and Kerry, both residing at home. In addition, he is survived by his brother, sister-in-law and niece Kevin and Joan Donlon and Brianne Donlon of Waterbury; his uncle and aunt, James and Frances Eckerlein of Saugerties, NY; his cousin, Lisa Eckerlein-Bean and her husband Craig Bean of Saugerties, NY; his mother-in-law and father-in law, Edsel and Alma Ruth Bucovaz of Memphis, TN; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Joseph Owen and Rita Bucovaz; niece, Mindy Bucovaz; nephew, David Lee Bucovaz of McDonough, GA; and numerous cousins. Peter was predeceased by his brother, Michael Donlon. A Mass is scheduled Saturday, March 29 at 10 a.m. at St. Thomas Church, 868 Farmington Ave., West Hartford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ Church, Peter Donlon Fund, c/o Tona, Shannon and Kerry Donlon, 76 Fourth St., Hamden, CT 06514. Prior to Peter's death, we had organized a fund-raiser to benefit his daughters on Sunday, March 30, from 1-4 p.m., at the American Legion Hall, 12 Memorial Drive, West Hartford. We would like this party to be a time to share our endless stories and memories of Peter and celebrate his life. It is open to all who would like to attend. The Sheehan-Hilborn-Breen Funeral Home, 1084 New Britain Ave., West Hartford is assisting the family with the arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Hartford Courant on Mar. 26, 2003.

Memories and Condolences
for Peter Donlon

Sponsored by Tona, Shannon, and Kerry .

10 Entries

Michael O'Connor

March 30, 2003

Pete was an old salt when I joined the WHPD in 1969 but all through the years I was always amazed by his friendly good humor and his easy going personality. We will miss you big guy, May God bless.

Conrad & Angela Fongemie

March 30, 2003

Pete was the first person to welcome me to the West Hartford Police Department in 1969. We shared many an experience since then. Big Pete, always the life of the party and the first at your door if you needed something. A good friend that will always be loved and missed.

Eddie Jurgelas

March 28, 2003

I am very saddened to have lost a great friend like Pete. Having known him for the past 30 years we always had a great time when we got together. At Brocks having a few drinks, in the courtroom trying not to laugh, or going to a ball game in New York ( where more than once we left our tickets at the bar and watched the game on TV) he always had a big smile on his face and a great sense of humor. I will truly miss him.

Dave Marsden

March 27, 2003

I will always remember Pete as a kind, friendly easy going guy. When we joined WHPD about the same time in 1967 we became friends. He was always smiling and had good things to say about everyone. His personality was the best. I will miss him, as will many whose path he crossed. His daughters must be very proud of such a great dad. God Bless you all and know that Pete is with his Heavenly Father.

Ferris

March 26, 2003

"Big Pete" knew my parents before I was born, so I was lucky enough to know him all of my life. As an adult, Pete and I became roommates in West Hartford. This relationship began two new phases in my life: I became a graduate of the "Pete Donlon DJ School," assisting him over the years in weddings, New Year's Eve parties, anniversary parties, etc; and he introduced me to "Monday Night Cards," reacaquainting me with some old friends and introducing me to many new ones.

Pete was a rather conservative card player, who was the only one of us with an assigned seat, but he was not conservative in his love for, and experiences in life. You never grew tired of listening to Pete tell stories of his days on the force, investigations he was involved with and especially his love of his daughters- be it taking them to the circus, sporting events or concerts, Shannon and Kerry were definitely the pride and joy of his life.

Although I moved to Atlanta almost three years ago, and hadn't seen Pete since last Thanksgiving, it's hard for me to believe I'll be saying good-bye to him for the last time this weekend.

Shannon and Kerry, know how much your Dad loved and cared for you, know that he is in a better place right now and that he will always be a part of our lives, especially yours!

Eddie and Helene Sheehan

March 26, 2003

We're so saddened to hear of Peter's passing....having left West Hartford many years ago, still remembering great times at Brocks with Pete and the old gang. I can see him now in my cousin Gerry's coupe in the St Paddy's Day Parade.

He'll be missed by many and was a tremendous guy.

Trish, Don & Meredith D'Abate

March 26, 2003

Dear Tona "etal",

We were of course very saddened to hear of Pete's illness. Gerry called to tell us about the benefit, and if at all possible, we will be there.

Just thinking back about things, I realize we've known Pete for nearly 30 years. I wish we had gotten to see him again, if only for a minute, to say our thanks. We are looking forward to seeing you and the girls.

With much love,

Trish, Don & Meredith D'Abate

Ray & Louise Shea

March 26, 2003

Dear Tona, Shannon & Kerry,

We want to share our deep and sincere condolences on the loss of a great guy and neighbor.
If there is anything Louise or I can do, do not hesitate to contact us.

William & Wallis French

March 26, 2003

All our prayers are with Pete &

family. We will miss him.

I had the priviledge to teach

Pete on how to investigate car

accidents. Little did we know that

someone would pull out of the

American Legion and smash into

Pete's car.

Wally & Bill French

Anne Albert-Williams

March 26, 2003

To: Donlon Family

Over 35 years ago, Pete was a great friend of mine. He made people laugh and he was surrounded by many who loved him dearly. He will be missed by all of us.

May your tears bring relief and healing as you keep his love in your hearts. May the light of hope shine upon you and bring peace to his love ones.

With sympathy

Anne, Mark, Sheena, and Justin

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