Michael E. Donohue

Michael Donohue, a 43-year resident of Nanuet, passed away on October 28th at the age of 82. A loving husband, father, grandfather and decorated police officer, he lost a tough-fought battle with cancer.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Kathryn, his son Dan and his wife Ann, his daughter Elizabeth, and his son Tom and his wife Kristine. Of all his life’s accomplishments he was most proud of his family and cheered on his grandchildren, Shannon, Maggie, Billy and Erin at every opportunity. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews and a cousin.

Mike was born in Harlem and grew up in Kingsbridge the Bronx with his parents, Michael and Elizabeth Donohue and his recently deceased brother, Hugh. He had fond memories of that neighborhood; street games with friends, the victory garden and mimicking the Brooklyn Dodgers. He became an avid fan of that team, and in later years rooted for any team that opposed the Yankees.

He had a long career of public service; joining the Army, assigned to Germany during the Cold War, then becoming a police officer with the NYC Transit Police for 25 years. He was a member of the National Guard and served ten years with the Rockland County Sheriff’s Transport Unit. Mike was a member of the Pearl River Elks, Pearl River American Legion and New City 2 Senior Club.

He spent his final months comfortably at home surrounded by those he loved. He enjoyed the everyday pleasures of following sports, Rockland Bakery rolls, hearty breakfasts, “pre-bed naps” and Jeopardy!

He said that he’d like to be remembered as a “decent father.” His closest friends and family, however, knew him as more. He was strong, honest, humble, and hilarious with a wry sense of humor. He was a remarkable husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother and friend who had a profound impact on all who knew him.

Wake will be at Michael J. Higgins New City on Wednesday, November 1st , 2017, 2PM-4PM and 7PM-9PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on November 2nd at 11:30AM at St. Anthony’s Shrine Church, Nanuet.