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Marlene Donovan Obituary
Marlene was born April 23, 1939, in New Haven. She was predeceased by her parents, Dominic Esposito and Rose (Maffeo) Leach; and her brother Michael "Dickie" Esposito.
She was married to her high school sweetheart, the late Ronald Donovan, for 57 years. She found new love later in life and married Robert "Bob" Semlitsch, who recently deceased her.
Marlene was a graduate of Fitch High School, Class of 1957. She was small in stature, but larger than life. To know her, was to love her. She was a talented singer, cook, seamstress and ran her own custom window treatment design business for over 40 years. She was a devoted mother and grandmother. Marlene spent most of her retirement years in Okatie and Mt. Pleasant, S.C., where she enjoyed cooking and spending time with family.
She is survived by her brother Daniel Esposito; daughter Nadine Cane and her husband Greg; sons: Scott, Paul, Ron and his wife Sue, Eric and his wife Terri and Kevin and his wife Holly; as well as 17 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and dog, Max.
A celebration of Marlene's life will take place later this year. Memorial Donations in Marlene's name may be made to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Marlene Donovan
6 Entries
Denise and Gary Lengel
October 12, 2025
Our sincere condolences to the Donovan family. I only now learned of your loss.
I met Marlene through her cousin Angela who was our neighbor in Guilford, Connecticut. Marlene was a lovely, kind woman and a good friend. She graced our home with her beautiful drapery work which we still enjoy very much. I think of her often and will always remember her.
God bless you all.
Dale A Torello
January 2, 2025
I remember a beautiful woman inside & out! Many fun times together! So sad to hear of her passing.
Melissa And John Sapia
October 31, 2021
So so sorry for your loss.. such a beautiful mom..
Denyce Thomson
October 27, 2021
Nadine, my sincere condolences to you and your family.
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Jane Parent
October 24, 2021
My deepest sympathy to the Donovan family. And much love to Nadine, Greg and their kids. Marlene was a very special person and I´m sure you will all miss her dearly.
JANINA & GLENN PARKER
October 24, 2021
Our sincere sympathy to the entire Donovan family. May all your memories be a consolation to your grief. Sending a special hug to our friend Nadine, knowing your closeness to your mom.
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