William J. Donovan 73, of Franklin, died peacefully, with family at his side, Sunday May 28, 2017 at Franklin Health & Rehabilitation Center following an illness. He was the beloved husband of the late Ellen F. (McManus) Donovan.
Born July 2, 1943 in Boston, a son of the late William J. and Elizabeth C. (MacDonald) Donovan, he was a Franklin resident for over 45 years.
He was raised and educated in Watertown and was a 1961 graduate of Watertown High School. Mr. Donovan was a retired senior executive for the Gamewell Corporation.
William proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.
He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, working in his yard, his tractor, the Boston Bruins, and was a fantastic storyteller. He also spent many summers on Prince Edward Island.
William is survived by his children, Michael J. Donovan of Franklin, Brian J. Donovan of Milford, Colleen M. Swenson and her husband Tom of Franklin, Patricia A. Ballarino and her husband Mark of Franklin and William J. Donovan and his wife Deirdre of Franklin, a brother, John L. Donovan, a sister Margaret M. Maillet both of Alfred, Maine.
Also surviving are his grandchildren, Alyssa, Matthew & Stephanie Donovan, Kevin, Meaghan & Kathryn Swenson, Sean, Sam & Jack Donovan, Melanie & Thomas Ballarino, James & Ellen Donovan.
He was the brother of the late Robert L. Donovan.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Thursday June 1st at 9:15AM from the Charles F. Oteri & Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. followed by a graveside service at 10AM in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Beaver St. Franklin. Interment will follow.
Calling hours are Wednesday from 6-8PM at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be sent to Community VNA Hospice 10 Emory St. Attleboro, MA 02703.
Guestbook/directions www.oterifuneralhome.com
