John Richard Donahue

John Richard Donahue was born in Columbus Ohio on September 23rd, 1933, to the late John F. and Jane Ann (Preest) Donahue. John moved to Indiana as a child. He lived in Mishawaka and later South Bend. 

He was a graduate of Central Catholic High School where he played all sports, then attended Purdue University where he was a member of Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity. He served with the US Army’s 2nd Armored Division in Germany where he adventured all through Europe.

John was very active in his community serving with distinction as the past President of the local chapter of Ancient Order of Hibernians and past Grand Knight of Council #5570 of the Knights of Columbus.

On August 30, 1969, John married the love of his life, Susan Marie Dempsey, the daughter of Hon. F., Kenneth Dempsey, ex-Superior Court Judge and one time Mayor of South Bend. She survives. John also leaves behind daughters, Colleen Donahue of South Bend, IN, and Erin Johns (Kevin) of Noblesville IN; grandchildren, Rachel Wray and Dylan Hull of South Bend, and Luke, Jake and Maureen Johns of Noblesville IN; and great-grandchildren Jordan and Hensley.

John was a hard worker and beloved manager of a Burger Chef in Valparaiso, the Arthur Treachers Restaurant in South Bend, as well as several positions in wholesale foods. 

John loved and was beloved by his large extended family with a special place in his heart for his Godson Sean. John loved reading history, traveling, socializing with friends, Purdue and Notre Dame sports and a good single malt Irish whiskey. 

Visitation will take place on Thursday January 9th from 5:00-7:00pm at McGann Funeral, University Chapel, 2313 E. Edison Rd. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 2822 Corpus Christi Dr., at 11 am on Friday January 10th with visitation at 10 am.