Clyde Jorgenson Donovan

Clyde Jorgenson Donovan, age 78 of Collinsville, IL, born April 24, 1946, in Bismark, ND, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at Christian Northeast Hospital surrounded by his loving family.
Clyde obtained a BA in Science in Psychology and Economics from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and made a career as a human resource executive. He proudly served in the United States Air Force as a Sargent from 1965 until 1969. Being a veteran was an honor that Clyde held dear to his heart.
One of Clyde's strongest attributes was his ability to give. Clyde was a faithful member of St. John United Church of Christ in Collinsville serving in a variety of leadership roles. He was a member of the American Legion, Collinsville Sunrise Kiwanis, where he served as past President and received the Dr. Luis V. Amador Award, Kiwanis International, Ducks Unlimited member, a past Boy Scout Leader, and member of the Coffee Club at the CMT YMCA. In all of his giving of time and talent, he impacted lives with his wit and wisdom.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Ruth (nee Nimincht) Donovan; birth parents, Lewis and Ann (nee Dowhaniuk) Jorgenson; three brothers: Paul Jorgenson, Clifford Jorgenson and Duaine Jorgenson.
Clyde was survived by his life partner, Vicki (nee Schulz) Donovan, whom he married August 10, 1968 in Fairbanks Alaska. They shared 58 years of building a family that was focused on faith. Their love and commitment were evident in all that they did together.
Clyde had two beloved daughters: Virginia "Ginger" (James) Schantz and Kristi (Paul) Ham, both of Maryville, IL; five grandchildren: Kaitlynn (Matt) Anderson, Emilee Schantz, Alexys Ham, Nicholas Schantz, and Allyson Ham. This group of 11 became the center of his life and focus. Some of his most loved activities included Sunday night dinners, special days with meme and papa, and supporting his grandchildren in all of their sporting activities and events. With each new memory Papa brought wisdom and laughter that will never be forgotten.
He was also survived by two brothers: James (Michele) Donovan of North Aurora, IL and Roger (Elizabeth) Geist of Cedar, MN; a sister, Darlene (Dwayne) Schilling of Turtle Lake, ND; along with numerous nieces and nephews that he loved dearly. Clyde enjoyed each visit with his brothers and sisters and the fellowship that they shared.
Memorial visitation will be 3 to 7 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025 at St. John United Church of Christ, 307 West Clay Street, Collinsville, IL and 9 to 10 a.m. on Saturday at the church.
Memorial service will follow at 10 a.m. with Pastor Jennifer Sowell officiating. Burial with military honors will be in St. John Cemetery, Collinsville.
Memorials are suggested to St. John United Church of Christ and the Collinsville Sunrise Kiwanis. Memorials may be given at the visitation or can be mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.