James Michael "Jim" Donahue's Obituary
James Michael “Jim” Donahue I, age 84, passed away on Thursday, March 9, 2023, in hospice care. Jim was born on March 2, 1939, in Grand Rapids, MI, to Frank and Mary (Dolan) Donahue, who preceded him in death. He graduated from Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School, class of 1957, along with his high school sweetheart, Alice Derezinski, whom he married in 1964. They enjoyed 59 years of marriage. He graduated from Western Michigan University, where he was an All-American swimmer and member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity.
Jim was in sales at Texaco Oil Company for 38 years and served his country in the National Guard. Jim and Alice enjoyed traveling. They had the opportunity to visit Ireland, where they visited the castle, defended for generations by his ancestors. Jim was very proud of his Irish heritage. Jim loved the outdoors. He enjoyed gardening and taking care of his yard. He also enjoyed boating on Spring Lake and on Lake Michigan. Jim was a passionate owner of Corvettes and Mercedes Benz cars. He enjoyed giving input into the design of his Spring Lake home, called the Glass House.
Jim will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Alice; son, James (Lori Anderson) Donahue II; granddaughter, Azara Donahue; sisters, Judy Gallmeier, Marilyn and Theresa Donahue; brother, John Donahue; nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends.
Honoring Jim’s wishes, the graveside service will private. Memorial Gifts can be made to the Harbor Hospice Foundation of Muskegon.
The family thanks Harbor Hospice and DaySpring Assisted Living for their kind and gentle care of Jim.
Remember Jim in your prayers.
The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services (6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444) is honored to be serving the Donahue family. To share special memories with the family and sign the online guestbook, please visit http://www.sytsemafh.com.
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