Robert Frederick Donovan

Robert Frederick Donovan, age 75, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2024. He was born on May 31, 1949 in Royal Oak, MI. Bob was a caring and devoted partner,step-father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He was known for his kindness, quick wit, patience and dedication to his family and friends.

Bob was a Michigan Tech graduate in Mechanical Engineering working for several engineering companies in the Grand Rapids area for 40 years & most recently worked at Mapes Furniture, Sunfield, MI where he was respected for his hard work and commitment. Outside of his professional life, he enjoyed golfing, woodworking, camping, cars, pets, playing hockey and was particularly passionate about Mich Tech, UofM and all Detroit professional sports which he cheered for throughout his life. Bob also found joy in spending time with his family and friends at their family's A-Frame cottage on Lake Michigan in Empire. Also, he had many fond memories with his Woodbine childhood buddies and his Delta Sigma Phi fraternity brothers at Michigan Tech.

He is survived by his beloved partner, Nancy Parker with whom he shared 14 years, his sisters, Pat Donovan, Kathy House and Mary Jessup and brothers, George (Rita) Oldfield and James (Linda) Oldfield, sister-in-laws, Lynn Oldfield and Joanne Donovan and step-sons Gary (Shelly) Boelens and Eric Boelens, Nancy’s sons, Darin Stowell and Brian (Laura) Stowell, grandchildren, Amber, Zack, Ben, Megan, Curtis and Shelby Boelens and Emily and Jordan Stowell and many nieces and nephews. Robert was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Nellie Donovan, brothers, Mike Donovan and Alvin Oldfield, brother-in-law, Craig House, step-son, Danny Boelens and Nancy’s son, Greg Stowell.

He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his love of storytelling, and the special way he made everyone around him feel valued.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 2nd at Lakewood Church, 10265 East Brown Road, Lake Odessa, MI 48849 at 11:00 am. Visitation will be at 10:00 am before the service where friends and family can gather to celebrate Bob’s life. A luncheon will be served immediately following the service.

In honor of Bob's life, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice. Your donation in his name would be a meaningful tribute to his life and the causes he held dear.

Bob's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.