John Donovan

"O Captain! My Captain!" John Donovan was a loving father to Alanna (Rob), Damien (Emma), Adrian (Bonnie), and Liam (Carter); and grandfather of Miles, Finn, and Rae, and a 4th grandchild on the way. John was a proud 3rd generation University of Michigan alum and practicing attorney, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. After receiving his JD from Case Western Reserve, where he served as editor of their law review, he returned to Napoleon to work alongside his father. John dedicated his practice to helping people through some of the most vulnerable times in their lives, serving them with his kindness, integrity and intellect. John was a gifted photographer - from the night sky to butterflies. He was a master gardener and cook, delighting in daisies and heirloom tomatoes. If he wasn't visiting Middle Earth, his nose was buried in other classic works of literature, or binge-watching films or drama series, or rocking out to U2, Talking Heads, or Yes. He was a keen observer of all things celestial and was known to pack a tent and his family in the car to travel long distances to enjoy the splendor of a solar eclipse. A blend of Mr. Spock, Pee Wee Herman and a dash of Gumby, John danced quirkily to his own drum. He had a strong mind, a big heart, and a whacky sense of humor, once notably illustrated by his portrayal of Eagle Eye Fleagle in a production of Li'l Abner. He could be seen around town with a mischievous grin, sporting different shades of green, and his long stocking cap in the winter. In his passing, he added another light to the Milky Way. John was preceded in death by his father James, mother Rose Louise (Zbylot), brother Jim, and former wife Merry Jakary, and his decades-long colleague Sandy Crandall. In addition to his four children and grandchildren, John is survived by his sister Mary Beth and her family, the extensive Jakary clan, and his lifelong friends Mark Knopper and Kathy Germann. A celebration of life is forthcoming. Memorials may be given in his honor to the Red Cross, ACLU, or PEN America. May Cirdan greet you with love and the Grey Havens let you sail peacefully into the arms of Valinor.

Tributes

John Donovan

December 31, 1957 - April 14, 2025