James "Corky" Donovan

James E. Donovan "Corky"

August 22, 1928 ~ December 13, 2015

The roads in heaven will be well cared for with the arrival of James Edward Donovan on December 13, 2015.  Born on August 22, 1928 in Volin, South Dakota to Charles and Viola Donovan, he received his lifelong nickname of “Corky” from his older siblings.

Corky grew up on a farm but was introduced to heavy equipment operation when he learned how to operate a bulldozer at age 16.

In 1951 Corky was drafted into the US Army.  He married Janice Segard on February 17, 1952.  Just a short time later, he was sent to Japan where he served as a heavy equipment instructor for 15 months.

Corky and his family moved to Utah in 1955.  He worked on various construction projects in the area including building of the causeway across the Great Salt Lake and the Willard Dike.  He was a foreman on construction of the Causey Dam.  During his working years he was often away while the family remained in Ogden, as he worked in most of the western states.  When highway construction was closed down during the winter months he worked on snow removal at Hill Air Force Base.  He was a member of the Operating Engineers Local Union 3 for about 60 years.

Corky retired in 1989 and he and Janice traveled each fall in an RV.  They visited every state but Hawaii with their 5th wheel, visiting friends and relatives along the way.  They also traveled in Europe, Japan, and Canada.

Woodworking became a hobby after retirement and many oak trees ended up in the numerous shelves, tables, and other items he made.  He made nearly one hundred children’s rocking chairs.

Corky was a member of Community United Methodist Church for over 50 years where he served on various committees and was always a willing volunteer for various projects.  He enjoyed welcoming new visitors to church and they soon became friends.

Corky leaves behind a large and loving family – Janice, wife of nearly 64 years; three children, Greg (Karyn) Donovan, Terri (Don) Michaels, Tamara (Randy) Daily; thirteen grandchildren, and twenty-one great-grandchildren with two more on the way.  He is also survived by one brother, Richard (Mae) Donovan; and three sisters, Mary Buckman, Kathryn Kollars, and Sharon (Ken) Griffin as well as many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Leo and Charles; and a sister, Frances; and one grandson, Rhett.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2015 at 1 p.m.at the Community United Methodist Church, 163 West 4800 South, South Ogden.  Friends may meet with family on Saturday from 12 to 12:45 p.m. at the church.  Services entrusted to Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Community United Methodist Church memorial fund.