Joseph James Donovan

1946 - 2009

BORN

1946

DIED

2009

Joseph Donovan Obituary

Joseph James Donovan, 63, went to be with his Lord Wednesday morning, Dec. 9, 2009.
Funeral: 10 a.m. Monday at Turning Point Church, 10700 Old Burleson Road, Fort Worth, Pastor Jeff Wickwire officiating. Interment: Mr. Donovan will be laid to rest at 12:30 p.m. Monday with military honors in Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas. Bearers of his casket will be his sons and grandsons. Visitation: The family will receive friends 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday at Lucas Funeral Home, 1321 Precinct Line Road, Hurst.
Memorials: May be made to Turning Point Church at tpcfamily.org
Mr. Donovan was born on March 16, 1946, in Niagara Falls, N.Y., to Margaret and Joseph A. Donovan. He served in the U.S. Air Force for over four years. After moving to Fort Worth he met and married Beverly Jane Long. A master finish carpenter and builder, he had a passion for working with wood and was considered by many to be an artist at his craft. He also loved cars, working on cars, and had an infinite knowledge of years, models and options.
He was very well-read, especially in the Bible, and a devout Christian. In the last eight to nine months he seemed to have a premonition that his time was short, which intensified his dedication to witnessing his faith to all he came in contact with. Joe's interest in the total person -- physical, mental and spiritual -- provided a storehouse of information to friends and family. He had a wonderful sense of humor. With his white hair and beard he sometimes caught the eyes of young persons in a restaurant and couldn't help playing Santa, asking wide-eyed boys or girls what they wanted for Christmas. He enjoyed lake activities, especially boating.
He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph A. Donovan, and mother, Margaret Donovan
Survivors: Beverly Donovan, wife of 30 years; sons, Joseph Donovan Jr. and wife, Cyndi, Daniel Donovan, John Sims and wife, Karen, Stephen Donovan and wife, Sarah; sister, Margaret Anne Gallagher; grandchildren, Clay, Ruben, Malee, Isaac, Kellen, Christina and Madeleine; sisters-in-law, Barbara and husband, Don Smith, Cindy Long and partner, Whitney; brothers-in-law, Ed Long and wife, Sherene, Fred Long and wife, Mary; and numerous nieces and nephews.

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Published by Star-Telegram on Dec. 13, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Donovan

8 Entries

Donna Armstrong

January 13, 2010

Dear Joe's Family,
I met your husband and father 42 years ago in 1967. I was 21. He was stationed at Wurtsmith AFB in Oscoda, MI.near my cottage in Lincoln, MI. We had a wonderful summer together. He was very special to me. I lived in Detroit and was going to school to be a teacher. We wrote back and forth.
He eventually met someone else but I never forgot him and often wondered how his life unfolded.
I searched for him and thought about him often over the years. Today I found him. One month too late to say Hello. I saw his obituary on-line. i cried.
I was happy to read that he had a wonderful life and family. He looked very happy. I want you to know that I share in your sorrow over the loss of such a great man. He will always be my favorite memory.
I would love to learn more about his life if you would like to contact me.

My condolences,
Donna Armstrong (Gonyea)
414-303-1612 cell
414-258-9152 home
[email protected]

Stewart Lindsay

December 18, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you. Joe and I grew up in Niagara Falls. I lived down the street from the Donovans. They were a special part of my life. May Joe rest in the peace of the Lord. Stew. Lindsay

Lee Kaldenbach

December 16, 2009

I was just told about this today. I don't quite know what to say.

Joseph was one of my favorite clients. I know his appearance at the shop usually meant car troubles for him and his Mini, but I always thoroughly enjoyed our conversations. Extremely intelligent guy with an intense desire to know everything possible about his car. That's just not something we all get the pleasure of encountering very often.

You'll be deeply missed, Joseph. May you rest in peace, sir.

-Lee @ Lone Star

December 15, 2009

Mom,
You truly have some great friends, and a wonderful support system. I realize Joe's passing is tough; but as so many have mentioned, Jesus will carry you throught this. He promised to. You are such a strong, dedicated woman who exemplifies the concept of unconditional love. I am so proud to call you mom. I promise to support in any way you need me through this time. I love you John Sims

Vicki Hardy

December 14, 2009

Beverly and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this unexpected time of sorrow. God has surely tested your faith over the last year, but I know that your trust in the Lord will carry you through. Keep up your faith!
Vicki Hardy.....Your postal family

December 14, 2009

Daniel, I'm sorry to hear of your loss. I pray that you and your family will find strength in his wonderful ability to love life, family and his ability to witness for the Lord. I know you will soon find comfort in those precious memories. I will keep you and your family in prayer for peace, comfort and strength. May the Lord Bless and Keep you all.
Sincerely, Kathylene Parramore, City Manager's Office.

December 13, 2009

Stephen and family,
Your grief and sorrow over the sudden loss of your father and friend Joe has touched us all. May the Lord give you strength thoughout this difficult time.

Greg, Sandy, Matthew Miller and Ronni Matheke

Debbie Branch

December 13, 2009

Beverly,

I can only imagine the grief you feel today. Take comfort in knowing that you will see Joe again. He was a wonderful person and his smile was heart warming. Lean on Jesus and your church family to carry you through. Remember, today you have a new angel watching over you. May Jesus give you a peace that passes all understanding. Your friends and church family are grieving with you. We love you. God Bless.

Debbie Branch

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