John Gerard Donovan passed away on April 21, 2018 at the age of 61. Born in Chicago on December 28, 1956, John was the beloved son of John (Jack) and Marian Donovan, both recently deceased. Devoted brother to Paulette (Steve Herman), Mary Lu (Richard Collins), Sukantika, Tim, Tom (Geralyn), Fran (Sean Shaffer), and Sue (Joe Minogue).
Loving uncle of Rich (Erin Kelly, Fern and Stone), Christopher, Elizabeth, Joseph, Caroline, Kaydee, Danny, Quinn, Maeve, Maddie, Grace, Mark and Eric. John grew… Read More » up in the heart of the Baby Boom surrounded by a large family and a wide circle of friends, and truly was ‘of the neighborhood. ’ His family home stood between Saint John Bosco Parish and Riis Park – both locations seminal to his life where he developed the strong ties and relationships that would stay with him to this day.
He graduated from Saint John Bosco and Quigley North Preparatory Seminary High School, took classes at the Art Institute and college courses in horticulture. His jobs and careers included a small landscaping business, many years as a waiter and a long stint at the Chicago Board of Trade as a runner, out trader and trader. John was a history and geography buff, a gardening and cooking pro, and a health and fitness enthusiast.
He was an avid athlete and though he hung up his cross country and softball shoes a few years back, he worked out regularly and could be seen riding his bike all over the northwest side until the end. John was big-hearted, quick to laugh and eager to please. His thoughtfulness and self-deprecating good humor won him many friends.
Always happy to pitch in wherever needed, John helped family and friends with myriad projects from painting garages and building decks to taking care of yard work and household maintenance for his aging parents. Nothing made him happier than cooking for a crowd and feeding his friends. Family came first for John and his dedication shone through in countless ways.
He treasured his many nieces and nephews, and their gifts to him were his prized possessions. He remained devoted to them and all his family throughout his years and memories of him will forever be cherished. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 27th ,from 3pm to 9pm, at Cumberland Chapels (FRIEL FUNERAL DIRECTORS) 8300 West Lawrence Avenue, Norridge.
Family and friends will meet on Saturday at St. Monica Church 5136 N. Nottingham, Chicago. The funeral mass will begin at 10:30 am. Interment Private.
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