John Donovan

Passed away peacefully after a brief illness at home surrounded by family in the early morning of Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at the age of 86. At 3 am a heavy thunderstorm made sure we were made aware that John had left us for another world and is watching over us. John will be forever missed by his devoted wife and best friend Lois (nee Morris) of 37 years. Cherished father of Garry Donovan (Sylvie) of Montreal, Carol Donovan of Whitby, Erin Hartley (Mike) of Beaumont, Alberta, Cameron Donovan of Bracebridge, Jason Godfrey (Angela) and Tyler Godfrey (Jennifer) all of Moncton, New Brunswick. He will be sadly missed by his grandchildren Ryan (Kendra), Melody (Gabe), Russell (Amber), Mitchell (Louisa) and Rachel as well as his great-grandchildren Sophia, Hazel and one on the way. Beloved brother of Carol Mayer-Dampf (late Joe) and Joyce Hackett, all of Oshawa. He will be fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews and many friends. Predeceased by his parents Bernard and Alice Donovan and brother Brian Donovan.

John was a warm, ever-smiling presence with a bold, unmistakable personality, quick with an Irish song and never shy about making himself known. He deeply cherished his family, along with the many friends and acquaintances he gathered throughout his life. John embraced life to the fullest through music, dancing, and golf… often accompanied by a dram of scotch. When he wasn’t dedicating over 40 years to Imperial Oil, he kept busy at home, an unstoppable energizer bunny. John was very proud of all his grandkids. Interested in what they were doing, where life is taking them and supportive in their struggles to get there. Everyone of them should know how much he loved them because he told them continually. John was the best grandpa in the world and his great joy was spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

That so loved personality will make John the greatest missed guy that any of us have known.

Cremation has been entrusted to Milestone Cremation Service, Napanee. Memorial donations made to the Prostate Cancer Canada would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences, photos and memories can be shared at www.milestonecremation.ca.

Never forgotten, but so sadly missed forever