"May 31, 2017 May I extend my belated condolences to Jim's partner and family, as I only just now learned of his passing. I considered him to be my long distance friend, as he was always very generous with advice and his time when I needed guidance. He will be very much missed."
In loving memory of
James Patrick Donovan
November 15, 2016
James Patrick "Jim" Donovan, age 74, of Plainville, Illinois, died Tuesday, November 15, 2016, at 9:08 a.m. in Blessing Hospital.
Jim was born July 21, 1942, in Lexington, Kentucky, the son of John Luke and Roxana Lee White Donovan. He married David Moore on October 27, 2008, in Sacramento, CA. He survives.
Jim served in the United States Navy and Naval Reserve for over 20 years, until his retirement. One of his favorite overseas posts was Rota, Spain. Jim had the honor of laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. He was a founding member of the American Veterans for Equal Rights.
Jim owned and operated Donovan Piano and Pipe Organ Service for many years. He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church, an elected member of the American Institute of Organbuilders, the American Guild of Organists, the American Theatre Organ Society, and the Organ Historical Society.
In addition to his husband, David, James is survived by a sister, Margaret R. Guilfoyle of Cincinnati, OH; nieces and nephews, Marcella A. (Thomas) Neumann, M. Colleen (Steven) Wietmarschen, Mary T. Martin Guilfoyle, Michael (Tami Kincaid) Guilfoyle, and Becky Hoover, all of Cincinnati, OH, and Michaela S. (James) Dacey of Bridgeport, CT; and numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews.
James was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Charles Murray Donovan and John Joseph Donovan, two sisters, Sister Mary Austin, S.C.N. and Patricia R. Donovan, and a brother-in-law, Michael M. Guilfoyle.
Services: 7:00 pm on Thursday, November 17, 2016 at Christ Lutheran Church, with the Rev. Gayle Pope officiating.
Visitation: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm on Thursday November 17, 2016 at Christ Lutheran Church.
Memorials: Quincy Symphony Orchestra Association or American Guild of Organists.
www.hansenspear.com
Hansen-Spear Funeral Directors are in charge of the arrangements.
Tributes
"I am deeply saddened to read of Jim's death. He was a fine man and will be greatly missed in Quincy."
"Jimmy was a year ahead of me at St. Paul's and was always very friendly. He and my mother played the organ there and they much enjoyed each other. He was very talented. I send my condolences."
"David you and Chief were more than friends, I consider you family. We all will miss him and you should always keep in mind you are surrounded by love, we are all here for you."
"Dear Dave, My heart goes out to you in this time of grief. Please know that I'll continue to pray for your consolation. Thank you for being a part of his life that made him happy. I questioned him when he put a sticker on my piano when he tuned it, but now I'm so glad that I can see that sticker and think of him! He said, "Of course, that's part of the history of your piano!"."
"So sorry for your loss, Dave. You have been a devoted caring companion of my Uncle Jim. I know my mom will especially miss his calls in the last couple years. I have funny fond memories of a very unique uncle."
"Jim tuned our piano several times -- not only was he passionate about the craft, but he loved it when our German Shepherds came to investigate him. He will be missed."
"Condolences to you and family ''Chief" will be fondly remembered for his tireless work on behalf of LGBTQ veterans and the American Veterans for Equal Rights.Fair winds and following seas shipmate!"
"Jim was a great and honorable sailor who served his country with pride. He has been a revered leader of veterans for many decades, and a dear friend."
"Jim will be truly missed. He was not only a member of American Veterans for Equal Rights be he served as the President for several years and participated on the board for even more. He worked tirelessly advocating for the rights of LGBT+ veterans. He has left his mark on this world and will forever be missed. RIP my dear friend much love goes out to his Husband David Moore."
"David, I am truly sorry about Jim's death. I will keep you and the family in my prayers."