Obituary published on Legacy.com by McHoul Funeral Home of Fishkill, Inc. on Dec. 12, 2024.
WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY - Our precious 'UK' left us on December 7, 2024 and our hearts are broken. He was the best brother, uncle and friend anyone could hope for.
Kevin Charles Donovan was born in Brooklyn, NY the 4th of 5 children, to Irish immigrants, Timothy and Mary Kate (Harte) Donovan on August 16, 1942.
In 1973, Kevin walked the Appalachian Trail from Brooklyn, NY and ended up in Wappingers Falls where he made his home for the remainder of his life. It was that journey which instilled in him his great love of the outdoors and doing what he could to protect the environment. After settling in he adopted his rescue dog, Charlie, who was his constant companion. He volunteered many hours to the Sloop Clearwater and Vanderbilt Mansion and enjoyed catching a sunset and moon gazing. He absolutely loved animals, and they loved him just as much. He could even be found feeding wild turkeys outside his home. When indoors, he enjoyed classical music, swing, opera, and show tunes, the Turner Classic Movie Channel watching old movies, reading the Arts section of the New York Times and completing the NYT Sunday crossword every week.
In 1960 Kevin became an Uncle for the first time, which he excelled at. He never missed a birthday, Christmas, Valentine's Day, St Patrick's Day or Halloween without sending a card and gift to his many nieces and nephews. He was the magical Uncle and took on the name 'UK'. He introduced his nieces and nephews to reading, theatre, music and a love of animals. He loved them to pieces and they loved him.
In 1986 he became a Great Uncle, and the nickname 'GUK' suited him even better - Great was an understatement. He continued his tradition of never missing an occasion for this new group of littles as well. He even started sending cards to all our pets. A get well card would arrive addressed to "Betty Canine" or "Rocco Canine". That always brought smiles. Kevin would always know what book to purchase - choosing from the New York Times children's bestseller list. He made you feel special, valued, loved and opened our world up in so many ways that you could never imagine.
Kevin was a sweet and generous soul, his loss leaves a deep hole. We know that Kevin has been reunited with his canine, Charlie, and is in good hands. God Bless UK. God certainly blessed us with his presence. xoxo
Kevin is survived by his sisters: Pat Moran of Wappingers Falls, NY and Joan Sweeney of Somers Point, NJ along with many loving nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he is pre-deceased by his sister Catherine Donovan Iannielli and Timothy Donovan.
In memory of UK please consider adopting a rescue dog or donating to a local animal shelter.
Calling hours will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 14 at the McHoul Funeral Home of Fishkill, Inc., 1089 Main Street,
Fishkill, NY. A funeral service will be conducted at 2 p.m.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.
For online tributes, visit www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.