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Art Donovan Obituary
Donovan died at 7:20 p.m. at Stella Maris Hospice in Baltimore, according to Kevin Byrne, senior vice president of public and community relations for the Baltimore Ravens.
Donovan made a name for himself as a feisty defensive tackle for the Baltimore Colts, helping the team to world championships in 1958 and 1959. He also spent single seasons with the New York Yanks and Dallas Texans in a career that lasted from 1950 through 1961.
"We lost a friend, one of the finest men and one of the greatest characters we were fortunate to meet in this community and in this business," Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti said. "Baltimore is now without one of its best and someone who was a foundation for the tremendous popularity of football in our area. The world is not as bright tonight because we lost someone who could make us all smile."
Voted into the Hall of Fame in 1968, Donovan was an outstanding lineman and an even better storyteller. Long after his career was over, Donovan made a living on the talk-show circuit, weaving yarns about the NFL's good old days — as he put it, "When men were, well, men."
Donovan was much like Bob Uecker, who also became popular on late-night talk shows through his stories about sports. But Uecker's game was baseball, and his schtick dealt with his limited abilities. Donovan performed on the football field as well as anyone at his position, even though he once said the only weight he ever lifted was a beer can.
"Some of the greatest football ever played by a defensive tackle was played by Art Donovan," said Hall of Fame center Jim Ringo, who died in 2007. "He was one of the greatest people I played against all my life."
Donovan played in the 1958 championship game between the Colts and New York Giants, a contest that was decided in overtime and ultimately tabbed by some football historians as "The Greatest Game Ever Played." The winner's share was $4,700; the most Donovan ever earned in one season was $22,000.
But Donovan got a million dollars' worth of memories and more than enough material for storytelling. Once, he filled a hotel shower stall with water and went for a dip. Things went swimmingly until the shower door burst open, flooding his room and the one below it.
Donovan had a thousand more stories like that, many of which were chronicled in his autobiography, appropriately titled, "Fatso." Donovan liked to say he was a light eater — "When it got light, I started eating."
He was hardly particular about what he ate (or drank), which could explain why he spent much of his life hovering around 300 pounds, although the playing weight of the 6-foot-3 Donovan was listed at 265.
"I've never been a gourmet eater," he wrote. "Kosher hot dogs, cheeseburgers, pizza, baloney, and a couple of cases of Schlitz are all I'd need on a desert isle."
Donovan's father was Arthur J. Donovan Sr., arguably the most famous fight referee of all time. The elder Donovan was the third man in the ring at 19 of Joe Louis' title fights and some 150 championship bouts in all.
When the younger Donovan grew up and left the tough New York neighborhood of his youth, he fought in World War II and played college football at Notre Dame and Boston College. While he was on the football field, he would just as soon step on a guy's hand than shake it.
Off the field, however, he was nothing more than a big teddy bear.
The late John Steadman, a sportswriter for The (Baltimore) Sun who covered the Colts in their glory years, once said, "Art is a tremendous example for everyone, a wonderful Santa Claus-type individual."
Indeed, Donovan often played the role of Saint Nick at the team's annual Christmas party. His good cheer was no act.
"Wherever Artie goes, people always crowd around him and he makes them laugh," former Colt Dick Syzmanski once said. "Isn't that a gift?"
Donovan broke into professional football in 1950 with the Colts, who folded after his rookie season. He played with the Yanks in 1951 and Texans in 1952 before the Dallas franchise moved to Baltimore and became the second version of the Colts.
DAVID GINSBURG,AP Sports Writer
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
173 Entries
Kenneth Kyle Jackson, Sr.
April 24, 2015
My dad, Kenneth Gene Jackson, played many years with Art Donovan. My dad considered him as his best friend. As I grew up, my dad, had many funny stories about him and Art. I never met, Art, personally, but I would like to thank his family for all my dad's fond memories of Art, during their professional football careers and years after. Back when the Baltimore Colt's, use to have reunions, my dad looked forward to seeing,Art and the rest of his team mates.. I am also as a Marine, knows that he belongs to that brother hood, as well. Semoer-Fidelis, Art
1414
August 25, 2014
To the Family of Art Donovan, My deepest condolenses . I'm sorry for this late message, but just found out Mr Donovan had past away. I did not know Mr Donovan personally, but would often watch the Johnny Carson show, and Dave Letterman and watch Mr Donovan. Mr Donovan was a down to earth guy, and was very funny. I can honestly say Mr Donovan brought a lot of laughter in my life. You should be very proud of Mr Donovan a great athlete, Serving Our Country in the Marine Corp, and being a great guy. See you in Heaven Art Donovan.
vic bullock
August 4, 2014
Played in those days '50's not only without a face mask, a leather helmut
some no chin strap. But plenty of body
pads, hip & knee, no have today. A buddyof mine got Ameche's helmut after
scored win TD as it rolled off, kept it
How you can show support
Brendan Davey
July 25, 2014
In reading my father's memoir (George Davey), Art grew up near him in the Bronx. My Dad said "The Bronx could be a tough place, but one of the kindest guys we knew was Art Donovan, who lived around the corner on 202nd street ... Art was 11 years older than me and he would always protect us kids from any wise guys" I wanted to let your family know Art's amazing impact on folks began early in life ...
Christine Donovan
June 5, 2014
Happy 90th Dad. Life will never be the same without you. I think of you every minute of every day.
All my love forever,
Christine
Steve Stallard
September 27, 2013
A great player and a very funny man. He will keep them laughing in Heaven. My Condolences to the Family.
Tisch Aitken
September 13, 2013
My condolences to all of the Donovans. Art's sister Joan was my father's business partner at Merrill and has been a big part of my life. I only met Art a few times; but, what I have seen and and heard of Art, that Donovan wit and kindness is obvious. He truly led a remarkable life. I am so sorry for your loss. -- Tisch Aitken
Thornleigh Improvement Association
August 20, 2013
Mr. Donovan will be greatly missed by his neighbors, he was the center of our community, bringing families of Thornleigh together for generations. Our condolences to his family for your loss.
Joe Amico
August 15, 2013
Dottie & family, so sorry for your loss-- I will Cherish the stories Art shared with me--- he will suerly be missed,but never forgotten---.
Tim Meyer
August 14, 2013
Art was not only a great football player, but a great guy. My favorite story was when he told Johnny Carson that his doctor has ordered him to cut his beer consumption to no more than a 6-pack a day. He then described his search for the 32 oz cans of Foster's from the liquor store that came in a 6-pack. He reported compliance to his doctor. So funny.
Marcia Meyer
August 13, 2013
To the family of Mr. Art Donovan:
I want you to know that, literally, during his last weekend on this earth, Art Donovan was remembered fondly and talked about extensively by football fans. We were in Canton for the HOF Induction Ceremonies and met/talked with many Raven fans "of a certain age" which meant their first team was the Baltimore Colts. As we're in that age bracket also, it was wonderful to discuss players and games which seem like yesterday and agreeing "they don't make 'um like they used to." (With two couples the conversation became quite heated as we argued which was Mr. Donovan's best line from the Letterman Shows.)
May I extend sympathies to all of his family and friends. He was a part of my football youth ... which I remember more clearly than yesterday.
Marcia Luebcke Meyer,
Packer Fan
Green Bay, Wisconsin
FootballTopFan
August 12, 2013
We would like to offer our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family, friends and fans of Art Donovan.
He was a terrific football player who was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
August 11, 2013
Chris,
Just heard that your Dad passed away, I am so sorry. My cousins just loved your Dad as he was the love of their life over football. From my cousins stories he and only he could hold their attention. Please know I am thinking of you and your family.
nina prestileo
August 11, 2013
To the Donovan Family,
I was privilaged to take care of your father during one of his hospitalizations.He was always a kind and generous person and will be deeply missed. My family and I are praying for you during your time of need.
sincerely
Nina M. PrestileoCMSRN
Andrew Thomas
August 10, 2013
Oh what a team we have in heaven. G>od be with you Donovan family.
Archbishop Brian Maitland
August 10, 2013
I am deeply sorry that I did not get word of the arrangements until today as I would have liked to attend. I will always remember and hold a special place in my heart for Mr. Donovan and for all that he and Mrs. Donovan did to assist in my getting to the US and their hospitality once I was here. I am sorry that we became so distant. It is my hope that we maybe able to rectify that in the future. To you Mrs. Donovan and your wonderful family, you have my sincere sympathy and that of my entire family. May God grant you all the strength needed to continue on life journey. You all will always be in my heart.
August 9, 2013
Debbie, Christopher and all the Donovans...much love...your dad/grandfather/husband was just the best! We have some terrific memories with you all! You are in our thoughts and prayers...Sarah, Patrick & Riley Hansen
1964 Colts
Ed Davis
August 9, 2013
Dottie and family - God bless you all and comfort you as you grieve the loss of Artie. I am one of those many native Baltimoreans old enough to have seen Baltimore Colts games and appreciate our great Colts heritage yet not quite old enough to have seen Artie play. While I didn't have the honor to meet him face-to-face after his playing days, he felt like family for his personality so similar to that of my relatives with roots in South Baltimore. Thank you for the comments at his service today that make us as Baltimoreans feel part of his inner circle. He represented the best of Baltimore and sets a high bar for how to treat others and enjoy life. He will be greatly missed and remembered fondly by us all.
Sam Miccinilli
August 9, 2013
Mary, thinking of you and your family today....Sam
August 9, 2013
To Art Jr.
From your friends and the staff of the Sands in Fenwick,
our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,
as you say goodbye todays.
Deborah Eyring
August 9, 2013
Debbie and Chrissy, I am praying for you and your family. Your Dad was always really nice to us at the club and I will never forget him. I had a lot of fun there. Remember when we crawled into the bar to listen to the men talk!? We were really young! God bless you.
Bridget Robinson
August 9, 2013
Mr. Donovan, a wonderful, funny, and family oriented person I met a few years ago. I was shocked and saddened with tears when I heard he had passed. My prayers are with the Donovan family, especially Kelly and Lou Mazzulli, and their children Mary and Maggie. My thoughts are with you at this time. Thinking of the fun memories and the good times/laughs. A truly great man is missed by so many. Keeping him in memory, Art will be a legend forever in our hearts.
Gina De Deo - Fontanazza
August 8, 2013
I met Mr. Donovan in the spring of 1983. I had just pulled onto the parking lot of his Valley Country Cub to finalize my decision to have my wedding reception there. I parked my car got out as Mr. Donovan walked towards me. He stopped me and asked me about my car, I was driving a 1970's red corvette with the "T" top out. He asked how I liked the car and commented he'd love to take it for a ride. I offered him my keys....To which he responded "honey if I get in there. I'm not gonna be able to get out." He was a sweet man and a wonderful human being. I know I will miss him as will so many others. Thank you Mr. Donovan for the wonderful memories, stories and your shining example of what a truly beautiful human being is! God bless you and your family.
John Stoner
August 8, 2013
I met Mr Donovan twice, at signings in Annapolis and Forest Hills. He said I reminded him of a fellow Colt player which I thought was really cool. A gracious man with a very sincere way about him. God bless #70 and his family. Rest in peace Art.
John Hasler
August 8, 2013
Rest in Peace Mr. Donovan. Our thoughts are with your family. I had the great pleasure of meeting Art through his daughter Debbie when I worked briefly in Baltimore in the 80's. I had been introduced to him casually one day and then did not see him again until some months later. I was stunned that he remembered my name. I now know that this was one of the fascinating parts of who Art was. He made everyone feel comfortable around him. Part of the business in Baltimore was a fine dining establishment, but there were always cans of Schlitz in the cooler in case he came in. Truly of of the most endearing and genuine people you could have ever hoped to meet. I'm sure he is in heaven having a cold one now. God speed.
William Sheck
August 8, 2013
I met Art when I was a teenager and attended a Philadelphia Warriors/Boston Celtics game in the late 50s. The prelim was a game between the Colts and Eagles. I told my friends that Art was married to my first cousin (cousin-in-law?) and of course they didn't believe it so we went to the exit from the locker room and when Art came out I introduced myself as the son of (John) Dan Sheck (Dottie's uncle and the Philly branch of the family). Not only was he so gracious but he, along with Jim Mutscheller, took us courtside to watch the Warriors/Celtics game up close and personal. Have enjoyed "Fatso" for years and recommend it to anyone who wants to know what football was in the "glory days". A great man. Condolences to the family (many of whom I've unfortunately never met).
Brian Billett
August 8, 2013
Very sorry to his family he was a great ambassador to NFL Football and as a human R.I.P Mr Donovan
John d'Esterhazy, Sr.
August 7, 2013
I grew up at 3034 Grand Concourse in the Bronx when Artie's family lived there. Artie went to school with several of my older sisters and older brother. He visited our home many times at family get togethers as he was a good friend of my sister Joan and her husband Jack Murray. When I worked at the New York Athletic Club at age 15 and 16 before entering the U.S. Navy at age 17, Artie's Dad, who was always "Mr Donovan" to me, was kind enough to give me some boxing lessons and training tips in his spare time. always appreciated that. While our paths never crossed again since leaving the Bronx, I have always remembered Artie, his dad who always reminded me of Randolph Scott the Western actor, and his family. Interestingly, my wife's dad, Ulysses J. Bourke also served with Gen. Black Jack Pershing in France (and was his Orderly) as did Artie's Dad. Artie was always proud to say he was from the Bronx and the Bronx was always proud of Artie. May he rest in Christ eternally and may his family know God's peace.
Rev John d'Esterhazy, Sr., McClure, PA 17841
August 7, 2013
May Arts family find peace and comfort by our heavenly father. Psalms 65;2
Andy Dombrowski
August 7, 2013
I will continue to play "Yours" on the piano at GBMC in memory of our conversations each Wednesday I am there. Our talks about WWII brought back memories, especially your favorite song of that time, Yours.
RIP, not many like you left.
Andy D
Jabo Ginter
August 7, 2013
Dear Debbie,
Sorry to hear about you dad. Wish I were there to give you a hug and hold you and talk about your wonderful father.
Much Love, Jabo
Maria Brennaman
August 7, 2013
Dear Mrs.Donovan, my condolences to you and your family. my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat Kelly
August 7, 2013
A great man, and a caring person. I remember working for BGE back in the late 60's and I was reading meter's near Art's package good store. It's raining really hard I came in soaked to the skin Art said to me you can't back out like that. He gave me a change and put my clothes in the dryer. We talked about the Colts and Johnny U, when my clothes were dry, I thanked him and he sent me on my way. Rest in peace Artie and my prayers are with the Family.
Phyllis Culp-Ward
August 7, 2013
Artie,you always said how "rotten" I am and you were funny but right on! Oh I loved you so! RIP Artie,I will always love you and the family.
Mark Conner
August 7, 2013
When my daughter was five years old, she was missing her two front teeth. She was among us at a gathering of my whole family at Towson restaurant when we spotted Art Donovan at the next table, having dinner with his wife, daughter, and Mr. and Mrs. Jim Mutscheller. Art came over to say hello, as, of course, he must have done thousands of times all over Baltimore. I introduced him to my girls and when we got to my 5-year old, he stuck a meaty finger in her mouth and said "Go ahead, kid, bite me... You can't bite me, you ain't got no teeth!" Then he gave her a dollar. Thank you, Mr. Donovan, for helping to make Baltimore the place that I love so well. And thank you to the Donovan family for sharing your husband and father with us. May we all be together again.
John Kerner
August 7, 2013
Rest in peace Art. Thank you for all the memories on the football field and the humor off the field. God Bless.
Nick Morris
August 7, 2013
My prayers are with the Donovan family. Our dear "Artie"will always be remembered as a gentle giant, wonderful friend, father and husband. I was honored to know him.
Bob McMahon
August 7, 2013
Good bye Artie, Heaven is in for a treat with you being there. It was a pleasure to know Artie who always had a story to tell. God Bless you and your family.
Jeanie Coolahan
August 7, 2013
May this candle burn bright and shine on the life of Baltimore's "Artie"....he was a good man and we will always love him!Condolences to his family and friends...
Tom Corcoran
August 7, 2013
Art, a great guy on the field or in front of a camera. Semper Fi Mac, I know your with a lot of Gyrene buddies up there,telling sea stories in a slop chute. Taps buddy and God Bless.
H Wayne Ferguson
August 7, 2013
I am sorry for your loss. I met Artie at the old Friendship Airport after a triumphant return to Baltimore after a road game.It was in the mid 50's , and his wife said "Artie make sure you give this little boy your autograph. " A time of true heros, thank you !
August 6, 2013
I am home with a broken leg, feeling a bit down and then I see Jonny Carson interviewing Art , I knew nothing about Art and almost did not watch it. Sooooo glad I did, I never laughed so hard before , I had to bite my hand to keep quite so I wouldn't wake up my uncle upstairs . Thanks Art for the laughs ! Rob Wiuff
Lucille
August 6, 2013
So sorry for the loss of a great guy. Art used to cheerfully carry out cases of beer for us from his store on Sherwood Road. Always a delightful gentleman.
Lucille (FL)
albin wozniak
August 6, 2013
In 49-50 at BC, I was a 17 yr old freshman and Artie was a 25 yr old senior. Those war veterans never lorded it over us. He herded all of us shy freshies and made us go to the acquaintance dance so we could, as he pointed out, we could find and marry and nice Irish lass. "But I am Polish" I pointed out. "That's good. She can marry up." says Artie. He respected life and he respected humanity.
Ed & Mary Clasby
August 6, 2013
On behalf of my family, my wife Mary and me, I want to express my heartfelt condolences on the loss of Artie.
He was a great teammate of mine at BC, and a wonderful friend. I will always remember some of the tremendous experiences we shared together as teammates. He was fun, inspiring and a loyal man- not only on the ball field, but in life! I feel fortunate to have known him.
Ed & Mary Clasby, BC"50
Worcester, MA
Sheri Evick
August 6, 2013
Our family is very sorry for your loss as we have never forgotten about Art from the time I was a young girl when we lived on Pinewood Ave next door to him and my brother used to play with Debbie and Chrissy (we called ) her when they were all little kids. My name is Sheri(Weese) Evick and my parents are John & Doris Weese. My brothers name was Dickie Weese when he played with your children( which he passed away about 5 years ago now) . My sister & I& my Mother (,as my Father John Weese passed away in 2000)remember your family very well and we are so very sorry for your loss and wish you would give us a call or email me at [email protected]. God Bless you all. Sheri Evick
Bruce Wheeler
August 6, 2013
Art Jr.
I am sorry to hear your father passed away. My thoughts are with you.
Terrie & Timmy O'Regan
August 6, 2013
Chris & Family,
Though I did not know "dad", I will always remember the stories you told about him through the years and the very special bond you both had. May your memories help you all through these times and bring much happiness. LOVE YOU!
Andrea Just
August 6, 2013
Arthur, dear Arthur - you made us laugh, you made us cry, you made us proud. Godspeed my friend.
Howard.
August 6, 2013
Mr Donovan will be missed He gave so Much to the Baltimore fans duning His football years, He will always be remember for His dedication and love He had for the game of football.
Susan Kelley Balderson
August 6, 2013
Please accept our deepest sympathy to the Donovan family from the family of Mae Kelley Green. Some of the stories Mom would share about our Dad, Mel Kelley, and Artie entertained us often. Know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Paul Sulzberger
August 6, 2013
Art
I loved to watch you play football and you were the greatest on talk shows. Remember you always.
Mary Meredith
August 6, 2013
May you now make your touch downs in Heaven. You'll be remembered by many. May you now RIP....................
Rodney & Elizabeth Green
August 6, 2013
Always enjoyed sitting for hours listening to Art tell the most hilarious stories. To Dottie and the rest of the Donovan family our deepest sympathy. There will never be another like him.
Ernie Olszewski
August 6, 2013
Artie was one of the truly wonderful people on this planet. How lucky is Baltimore to have had him here for 60+ plus years. I am about to read the book "Fatso" again so Artie can make me laugh one more time. A great Baltimore Colt but an even greater man. This Schlitz is for you Artie.
Eddie
August 6, 2013
Art you one of the last great players who knew how to enjoy life RIP MY PAL
Maggie Carthy
August 6, 2013
Dear, dear Artie - I wish you happiness in touch down Heaven, and may the Golden Arm be there to give you a great big hug!
meredith jackson
August 6, 2013
you are missed by those of us who grew up watching you onand off the field. May you rest in peace.
Doug Waldron
August 6, 2013
Artie, you were no doubt one of the greatest players of all times, it's sad day for football that we'll never see another one like you. R. I. P.
Pam Pearce
August 6, 2013
R.I.P my friend job well done
Joan Ray
August 6, 2013
Ms. Dottie, Deb,& Family,
Mr. D was truly one of the nicest men I had the pleasure to meet and know. Getting married at the club, working with you all for the last 10 years, and stopping by the house on a whim while visiting Deb at the mansion are memories I will hold close and cherish for a long time. His kindness, generosity, and sense of humor will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your whole family. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you all, as I am just a phone call away.
Love, Joannie.
H. Doherty
August 6, 2013
The first thing I did when I heard Art passed away was smile. That's what I remember about him. He always made me smile. Why is that?
Jeanie Coolahan
August 6, 2013
Once in a while, this world is graced by a shining star. Artie was just that, a shining star in the midst of a dark night. His laughter and sense of humor brightened up this world. As a football fan, I will miss his stories. I met him once, and that was at a sports bar of course when he was doing a radio show broadcast. I'll never forget that night, nor will I ever forget Art Donovan; he truly is an icon. My sincere heartfelt condolences to his family. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Richard Hawkins
August 6, 2013
Thanks for the memories, Art ... you and your teammates meant everything to me ... you enriched the lives of so many ... thank you for your service to our country ...
Bill Pohlman
August 6, 2013
My Deepest Sympathy, My Dad and I loved Artie, loved his stories, Loved his passion for life. God Bless
Ed Ruby
August 6, 2013
R.I.P. Artie. You were a great player and an even greater human being .
Stevie Bailey
August 6, 2013
My Dear Mr. Donovan;
I will miss you dearly. You were a no nonsense man. I enjoyed your visits to Channel 13 every Friday. I will especially miss your spirit, your stories, and your love for the people of Baltimore. To the Family, my heartfelt condolences to you.
Joe Masaryk
August 6, 2013
Ar Donovan, everybody who met you through watching football, reading your book or your David Letterman show appearances loved you.
You were totally down-to-earth and unpretentious, a regular guy who became a hero. If our family had grown up in your Maryland, I'm sure we would have belonged to your country club for the sheer fun of it.
You served the church as an altar boy at early Mass, served your country in WWII, and told it like it was with everyone from Don Shula to Gene Lipscomb.
You were a good Catholic. I know you are in heaven with plenty of kosher baloney and kosher salami.
Donna Adolph
August 6, 2013
Dottie and the entire Donovan Family:
I am truly sorry for the loss of a dear, special man. I have so many memories of Artie. It didn't matter where he was, he always stopped to speak to a fan. He was a down to earth, caring, trusting man.
I remember Donovan Liquors furnished all my parties. Artie always suggested you just take the liquor home, everything you could possibly need and return what was unopened and settle up AFTER the party. He made life simpler and no one was ever disappointed, thanks to Artie. I remember the liquor store was a meeting place to gather, have a drink and catch up.
I remember when Wendy's first opened and they became his " favorite burger". He raved about them.
I remember the special occasions we had at the country club.
I remember all the parties with the old Colts, laughing and sharing stories.
What stands out most about Artie was his gift for story telling and how he would make us laugh.
Thanks for the memories, Artie, on the field and off. You were a classic, cherished friend to all you met. You sure made the world a brighter place just by being in it. Baltimore, the football community and New York will be at a loss. Our world will seem dimmer without you, but heaven just gained a shining star. Enjoy all your old cronies...I can just hear the stories you are telling now. Rest in peace.
May God's grace be sufficient to see you through these difficult times. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Dennis Di Schino
August 5, 2013
Many, many thanks to Artie for his visits to the BC Touchdown Club over the years. All of us diehard fans are very proud that he played for the maroon and gold. It really is great that Art lived large in all ways to the ripe old age of 89! Your retired jersey proudly hangs now and forever in the stadium for all to see for generations to come.
Thank you Art!
JAMES HURST
August 5, 2013
What truly wonderful man and a hero of the GREATEST GENERATION, many Christmas' ago my wife bought me "Fatso" I read the whole book that night and laughed out loud my wife woke up and asked what could possibly be so funny I told her just a fellow altar boy God's speed Arty !!!
Annette Terison
August 5, 2013
My father, Art Cesario, was best friends with Art Donovan when they attended Boston College. Art is my brothers Godfather. I am so sorry to hear that he has passed away. Annette (Cesario) Terison
Ed
August 5, 2013
My deep sympathy to the Donovan's. Your beloved Art is peacefully resting. You will be reunited in paradise on earth. Psalms 37:29
Mike, Denise Keller
August 5, 2013
Thanks for the ride, Art!
Tony Rainieri
August 5, 2013
Mr.and Mrs. Donovan were always my favorites when visiting Canton.
He will be missed,
Tony Rainieri
Pastor Thomas Brooks
August 5, 2013
Dear Dottie,
It as been a long time since I introduced you to Artie, and the love I saw in you kids. My prayers are always with the family and I know that God will be blessed to hear too, all the stories that Artie always shared. God Bless you much; an old dear friend.
Pastor Thomas M. Brooks
P.S. Artie was a real friend to me.
Connie Wolkowicz
August 5, 2013
Dear Dottie and family,
I was shocked to learn of Art's passing. I never think of him that a smile doesn't come to my face. He really was so much fun and so full of life. My heart goes out to all of you at this time of loss and I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
steve wolf
August 5, 2013
Dear Kelly, Mary, Debbie, Dottie, and the rest of the Donovan family,
please accept my heart felt condolences in the loss of Artie. For as many times as I have DJ weddings, and pool parties, the best part of my evening was being able to chat with Artie. I think it is safe to say that all of Baltimore and the sports world are feeling your pain, and shedding the tears.
We as Artie fans cherish a lot of memories of him.
I just cant imagine the memories you will cherish of your Dad
it's now time to celebrate and laugh at the life of Artie Donovan.....he was truly a great man, a football icon, and an ambassador to Baltimore and the State of Maryland.
God bless the Donovan Family
Steve Wolf
Digital Sounds Baltimore
Mobile DJ / Entertainment Service
MR Sullivan
August 5, 2013
Debbie and family. I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad. I know you will in time be able to smile and at times laugh about your Dad's stories. We were so blessed to have the pleasure to meet your dad at Kerry' wedding. Your dad will be forever in our hearts and may God Bless you and your family. Again God Bless.
Rita Sullivan
wiley little
August 5, 2013
you will be missed
August 5, 2013
Dear Dottie and family,
What a man and what a family. Hugh and Vi Fischer introduced us to your family and we always love every minute with your gang. I know the first thing Artie did when he passed through the pearly gates was blow his horn on the golf cart and Hugh was there with a 24 oz. Schiltz. Hugh loved every minute spent with him and you. You gave Vi another life working with you guys at the club. So many stories and pictures we have. Thanks so much for giving my Dad a really good friend. We raise a Schiltz to Artie.
Love Hugh and Judy Fischer
joe dantoni,jr
August 5, 2013
it is a sad day in my life, another one of my childhood heroes has passed. tonight i willgo outside and look skyward to the stars. one will be wearing 19, and the one next to him will have a schilitz in his hand. god bless fatso.
Mike Roarke
August 5, 2013
Addendum: Dorothy, in Art's memory I am having hotdogs tonight. Mike Roarke
Mike Roarke
August 5, 2013
Dorothy, I was sorry to hear of Arthur's passing away. He will certainly be missed by everyone. My personal sympathy. Mike Roarke
Donna Colyer-Bethel
August 5, 2013
He was just bigger than life, both on and off the field. As a native Baltimore gal, my memories of the Colts are some of my best.
Fran Meyers
August 5, 2013
A true human being. Kind soul and an ICON. You will be missed and we are all blessed to have made your aquaintance.
Ken Carter
August 5, 2013
A great WWII Marine, and one of the Greatest Baltimore Colts of all times.
I was able to sit down with Art back in 1996, at Harry's on main street, Westminster, Md., and eat lunch with him.
Art was only a P.F.C. in the Marine Corps, but he love the Marines, after he got out he went back home to New York, in the Bronx. He told me about joining the Marine Corps, when he came back home from the Marine Recruiter, his father was setting on the front steps. He said to his father, dad I join the Marines, his father turn and look up and yell! out to his wife, "MARY!" come say good bye, your son is going to die, he join the Marines.
Well he made it back home from the War, years have gone bye, then one day he come home and his father was setting out side on the front steps again, and Art said dad I join the "Baltimore Colts". His father turn and look up and said "MARY!" come and say good bye, your son is going to die, he join the "Baltimore Colts". Well Art was a lot of fun talking to, I will miss him.
We all known that he is reporting in at the "Pearly gates of God's Kingdom" were he has many good friends there to greet him, Marines, Baltimore Colts, and all the people he has touch in his life time here on earth. God sent Art to us all, to love and make us Happy, well Art has done a great job. I will never forget that day in 1996.
Semper Fidelis Marine Donovan
Ken Carter USMC Mt. Airy, MD.
LJB
August 5, 2013
THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER ART DONOVAN ON OR OFF THE FIELD.THANKS FOR ALL THE MEMORIES. REST IN PEACE ARTIE.
August 5, 2013
Dear Dottie and Family,
It is with a heavy heart I write to you today. I had the pleasure of spending time with you and Artie along with my wonderful boss, Leroy Merritt. I will forever cherish those memories of our dining together and hysterically laughing while Artie and Leroy shared their wonderful stories. I especially enjoyed our brief time together in Aspen. Artie's huge heart and infectious humor will be terribly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. God Bless and Peace be with you....
Dauphne Lee Bitzel,
Merritt Properties, LLC
Sandy Israel
August 5, 2013
Artie...you were a hero to many people...not because of your days with the the REAL BALTIMORE COLTS..but because of your love for the the city of Baltimore and the fans. ...May your memory be blessed.
August 5, 2013
There was only 1 Art
August 5, 2013
Dear Donovan Family,
I remember all the great times we had on the "Bus" to the Baltimore and DC Games to watch Art play. Also the victory dinners/dances at the Club... But most specially, I remember how excited happy Dottie and Art were when their baby boy was born!!! Those birth announcements with the Colt's # 70 on it told the whole story. Art will be missed by all who knew him. May God bless and comfort you all. Dr. Janet M. Taylor Schneider
Bill Brown
August 5, 2013
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Harry Simpson
August 5, 2013
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Saepe Expertus, Semper Fidelis, Fratres Aeterni.
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
Jim Narutowicz. Sr
August 5, 2013
Bye Artie
Thanks for being such a good friend to my family & me at MICKYS at sparrows point
& for the good films and talk you gave at st Charles college about colts winning the championship in 1958
Sheila Mead
August 5, 2013
To Christine and the entire Donovan famiy~ Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your dad. Although we never met him, it sounds like he was a wonderful man, husband and father. May your wonderful memories of him bring you comfort and peace. The Mead Family: David, Sheila, Caroline, Riley and Owen
Thomas Sanders,CCM
August 5, 2013
May he rest in peace.As a retired Country Club Manager,I saw Art and his wife Dorothy at Conference every year.What a great man with a wonderful sense of humor.My sympathy to the entire Donovan Family.
Michael Graziano
August 5, 2013
Donovan Family
A ledgend in his own time! As a little boy - my hero- a great friend to my father! May God bless his soul.
With Love - the Graziano Family
From the Graziano Family
Jennifer Rosellini
August 5, 2013
To the Donovan Family, my deepest regards and sympathies are with you ALL.
To: Mrs. Dot if you need ANYthing....please let me know. (Jenn R. from JHOC Pharmacy)
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