Obituary of William Leonard Donovan

On April 12, 2023, William Leonard Donovan of Hampton, NB formally a Saint John native passed away peacefully at the age of 92 years.

He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Glenda Donovan, Murray Donovan, Sheryll Donovan his daughter in law Eden, along with his 3 grandchildren, Yasmeen Malik, Sara Bowkowy and Ella Donovan; his sister, Ruth Rugliers; also with many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his brothers, Murray, and Raymond, as well as his sister, Eileen. E also had an older brother who passed away at 7 years old from meningitis around the time he was born.

William was well known in the communities where he lived and had many friends who loved him.

William, who was called Bill by his friends, grew up on City Road in Saint John. The family had a summer cottage in Anthony’s Cove in Red Head. He grew up fishing, hunting, and loved being down at the beach exploring. He was also a licensed guide for hunting and fishing and liked to use his plane for scouting moose.  He was especially proud of Greg Simmons of Hampton, N.B. who became an Air Canada pilot after William helped him get his private pilot’s licence when he was a young man.

He loved flying and became a pilot and a member of the SJ Flying Club. He and his brother Murray owned a couple planes and started a small flying business together in which he was quite proud.  He was a member of the CASARA (Canadian Air Search and Rescue). Was also a coach in the East West Suburban Hockey League where his brother Murray was a sponsor.  He was president of the Fish and Game Association for a while, coached a wheelchair basketball team for a full season, had his prospectors license and had gold claims around Balls Lake fishing club where he later became a member.

William had many great friends throughout his life that he always stayed close with.

The family would like to thank his caregivers, friends, and family that helped in his last years for the many visits that kept him going.  I'm sure William would like to thank Dolly Scribner, Elaine Leger, and Carole Bradford, Nebiat Gebrab, who were always there for him for years.  The family would like to mention that love didn't go unnoticed. 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (634-7424). William’s wishes were to be cremated and placed alongside his brother and sister in Fernhill Cemetery. Interment will take place in Fernhill Cemetery on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at 12:00 PM. A reception will be held at Murray’s House (29 Ossekeage Court, Hampton, NB) following the interment. William requested that no flowers or donations be made. Online condolences may be placed at www.BrenansFH.com