Lois J. Donovan, was living in St Clair Shores after being a longtime resident of Grosse Pointe, passed away peacefully in her sleep after a long illness on June 11th, 2021. Born July 1st, 1931 in Detroit, MI, to Sante and Mary Janzito who predeceased her. Brothers Richard Janzito (Shirley) and Philip Janzito (Marie) also predeceased her.
Lois attended Wayne State University where she earned a bachelors degree and worked for the Harper Woods School District as an elementary school teacher. During this time in her life Lois met the love of her life, Richard C. Donovan at a party and were married six months later. Lois and Richard were happily married for over 59 years.
Lois was a devout Catholic. She taught catechism, was a eucharistic minister and for years belonged to the St Vincent DePaul Society at St Paul. Lois and Richard were known to spend weekends in the fall attending University of Notre Dame football games or hosting football parties in their home. Many summers were enjoyed with friends and relatives in Western Michigan at a cottage called Cherokee. Another great joy Lois had was taking her children when they were young to many interesting destinations. Lois was also an avid bridge player spending an afternoon or evening playing bridge with her husband and friends. She loved hosting dinner parties and her great joy was sharing a meal and having a cocktail with family and friends. All those who knew Lois often said that she was the most loving person and her smile would light up any room.
Survived by her loving husband Richard C. Donovan, and her two children, James Donovan and Mary Kay Golia (Antonio). Two grandchildren Margaret Golia and Antonio Golia, whom she just adored. Also survived by nieces and nephew, Linda Boger (Ron), Thomas Janzito, Barb Hockin (Gary), Susan Andre (Bob), Mary Beth Strohbeck, and Teri Donovan. Predeceased by niece Nancy Janzito.
A special acknowledgement and eternal thanks to caregivers Cassandra Robinson and Kimika Smith who lovingly and tirelessly cared for Lois and her family.
A funeral mass will be held at St Paul on the Lake Catholic Church 157 Lake Shore Rd in Grosse Pointe Farms on Saturday June 19th, 2021. Instate at 9:30am with mass following at 10:00am. The family suggests considering a donation to the St Vincent DePaul Society or Hospice of Michigan. Arrangements are being made through A. H. Peters Funeral Home.
