John Donahue

1923 - 2018

John K. Donahue, 94

SHREWSBURY - John K. Donahue, 94, passed away peacefully on Jan. 5, 2018.

Jack was born on April 24, 1923, to John S. and Adeline (Kaner) Donahue.

He joined the Army Air Corps in WWII and served with the 5th Air Force from Australia to Tokyo, participating in the New Guinea, Philippines and Okinawa campaigns. After the war, Jack worked for his father's company while taking college courses in Boston and visiting friends in Shrewsbury. There, he courted Frances Deming, whom he'd known since childhood visits to his grandparents' home on Lake Quinsigamond. He and Fran married in 1950 and raised four children at their home on the cove.

Jack became a successful sales executive, traveling throughout New England and beyond, selling building and lumber supplies. He enjoyed his time on the road, and his boundless curiosity led to explorations and adventures. He relished taking his kids on day trips and sharing his discoveries. He was an avid reader, prolific artist, and also played the organ. He was dedicated to daily hikes, loved nature and gardening, and especially his dogs. Jack and Fran enjoyed life on the lake and lively seasons spent boating, waterskiing, sailing, skating, sledding and more with family and friends. He and Fran also shared events and travels with the couples of "The Card Group" -- devoted friends they'd known for decades.

Jack was a town meeting representative for more than 60 years. He belonged to the Ray Stone American Legion Post, VFW, Shrewsbury Senior Center, Greendale Men's Club, and Yoga Warriors.

Jack is survived by his children John K. Donahue Jr.; Nancy Dahlstrom and husband John; Jane Salerno and husband Gary; and Barbara St. Pierre and husband Richard; grandchildren Carolyn, John, Deirdre, John, Allen, Ann, Allie, William and Andrea; and great-grandchildren Bradley, Jackie, and Jasmine. He was predeceased by his wife Frances (2011), and sister Jane.

The family extends their gratitude to the staff and caregivers at the Goddard House, Homestead Hall, and Jewish Hospice.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Jack's family on Wednesday January 10, 2018 beginning at 10 a.m., with a time for remembrance and reflection at 11a.m. in the BRITTON-SHREWSBURY FUNERAL HOME, 648 Main St, Shrewsbury. Burial will follow in Mountain View Cemetery, Shrewsbury. Memorial donations may be made to the Shrewsbury Council on Aging (SCOA), 98 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545.To leave a note of condolence for Jack's family, please visit, www.brittonfuneralhomes.com