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James Donlan Obituary
James E. Donlan of Scottsdale passed away peacefully this past Saturday, May 23, 2014 at the age of 85. Jim was a beloved Husband, Father and Grandfather who spent a lifetime dedicated to the betterment of his family, his friends, and a deep devotion to his Catholic faith. He was born in Dubuque, Iowa on October 27, 1928, to Phil and Mary Donlan in a family that included five Brothers and two Sisters during some of the most challenging times of our nation. Upon graduation from High School, Jim enlisted the following day in the United States Marines where he served for two years. Subsequent to discharge from the service, Jim continued the courtship of his soon to be wife Dorothy VanZile which began the night of their Senior Prom and continued in love until her passing in 2006. A graduate of Creighton University, Jim began his professional career with Arthur Anderson as an auditor which guided him to multiple positions in finance with Wheelabrator in South Bend, Indiana. Over his career, Jim aspired to the position of President of the South Bend Division and subsequent roles in the Corporation culminating as the Senior Vice President of Operations of Wheelabrator-Frye an International, Fortune 500 Company. Jim was preceded in death by his Sons Dennis and Jimmy and is survived by sons Kevin and Michael, daughters-in-law Beth and Connie, six grandchildren, and one great grandchild. He loved his family and especially enjoyed following the University of Notre Dame both in their athletic endeavors and as an active financial sponsor for the continued growth of the institution. His friendships meant the world to him and are too numerous to mention but will never be forgotten. Jim will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, a champion of his industry, and a man who treated people with respect regardless of their position in life. He was above all a Gentleman. A Funeral Service will be held at St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church, 6261 N. Granite Reef Rd., Scottsdale on Saturday, May 31st at 10:00 AM. Arrangements entrusted to Messinger Indian School Mortuary, Scottsdale.
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Memories and Condolences
for James Donlan
Brian McCarthy
June 2, 2014
Kevin, Mike, & Mr. Donlan's Family,
I have had the pleasure to know your amazing family for many years which afforded me the opportunity to meet Mr. James Donlan. The few times I had the pleasure to spend with him made it evident that he commanded respect from not only his accomplishments in the business world but mostly from the relationships he garnered with his family & friends. He always treated me like a friend although he barely knew me. He certainly did a great job raising his four boys. I will miss him, his family will certainly miss him, & the world is not as good without him in it. I am certain that when he crossed over into heaven, he heard "Well done my good & faithful servant". Thank you for being you Mr. Donlan!
Mark Cantwell
May 30, 2014
It is with respect and fondness that we will always remember you Jim. Your influence on our lives was important and appreciated. Your guidance needed and your friendship cherished.
The Cantwell Family
Mark Feldman
May 30, 2014
a family man, in every way imaginable. I will miss him dearly.
Larry & Margi Hughes
May 30, 2014
Dear Kevin, Mike & family, We are so sorry to hear of your Father's passing. He was great example for all us Father's. We will keep you all in our prayers. Semper Fi fellow Marine rest in peace.
May 29, 2014
Kevin, Michael and families,
Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Please accept our deepest sympathies on the passing of your dear Father.
Jim & Mary Yeager
Fremont, OH
Diane King
May 28, 2014
To Dearest Kevin and Michael and Family,
My family and the whole King family send our deepest and heartfelt sympathies to you all. The only thing that gives me a bit of peace is knowing that finally Dad Donlan will be reunited with his fabulous sons and beloved wife, Mom Donlan. He was a huge influence in my life and I will always cherish the memories and times I had with my wonderful first family-The Donlan's. God Bless you all.
Linda King
May 28, 2014
Bill and I are saddened to hear of Jim's passing, but blessed to have known him. We will miss his visits to Prescott.
Patrick Rice
May 28, 2014
Dear Donlan Family,
Our deepest sympathy in this time of loss.
Every Marine, past and present is an honored part of our heritage and family.
Semper Fi,
Patrick Rice
Marine Corps League
Detachment 1296
East Valley Marines
May 28, 2014
Kevin and Mike and the entire Donlan family
I loved "Big Jim" like my own dad.
He was a true pillar of a man. What a privilege to have known him.
With deepest sympathy
Tim and Katy Demarais
Marian Emery
May 28, 2014
SO sorry for your loss. He was such a nice man.
May 28, 2014
Jim was a blessing in our life - truly a kind man. His spirit is evident in his sons and grandchildren. Ruthann Weil and Dick Paull.
Kate and Pat Murphy
May 28, 2014
Dear Mike,
Pat and I send our deepest sympathy to you and your family on the passing of your dad. What a marvelous man and role model he was for you growing up and now we know why you became the wonderful person you are today. Love, Kate and Pat Murphy
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Messinger Mortuaries- Indian School Mortuary7601 East Indian School Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
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