Dennis Francis Donahue
January 30, 1948 ~ June 4, 2017
Dennis Francis Donahue went to Tralfamadore on June 4, 2017. He passed away in his home sitting in his favorite chair.
Dennis was born on January 30, 1948 in Indianapolis, Indiana to his parents, Ed and Ann Donahue. After high school he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served his country in the Vietnam War from 1966-1969, earning the Purple Heart Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Marksman Pistol Badge and Marksman Rifle Badge.
Dennis is survived by his wife of 33 years, Kathryn, sons Michael and Jason, daughter Kelly (Matthew), his GrahamSon, brother Steve (Margaret), sister-in-law Theresa, mother-in-law Donna Winter and many relatives from the Ahues and the Ohues.
He is also survived by his best friends William (“We’ll buy, won’t we Bill?”) Amrine and Steve “Bones” Casterline, and his Marine Corps Sidekicks T.W. “Smitty” Smith, Bobby Saunders, Jamie Roach, Stevie D. Mylin and Barry Heffner.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Ann, and brother Patrick.
Dennis never met a stranger, and always had a story or joke to share; just don’t expect it to be short. He was quick to offer a beer and could bullshit (or bovine scatology) better than anyone.
Services will be held Saturday, June 10, 2017, 7 p.m., in the Clubhouse at Eagle Creek Golf Course, 8802 W. 56th Street. Libations to follow the ceremony. All are welcome to come and celebrate Dennis’ life. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Jennifer’s Journey http://on.cff.org/2sPCNmW. Visit www.ORileyFuneralHome.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.
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Friends and Family uploaded 2 to the gallery.
I have been to many weddings, but no father of the bride gave a more moving speech than Dennis did at Kelly & Matt’s wedding. So eloquent & loving, a true tribute to their father/daughter bond. It was a privilege to hear him speak.
Mr. Donahue was a favorite among the students at Danville Community Schools. Anytime you came into class and saw him you knew it was going to be an awesome class. Not only did he share his vast wisdom of the world, he genuinely cared about us students. He always asked about softball when we were in the season and said he’s give us $10 if he hit a ball to the road. To this day when I would run into him around town I would Instantly light up and yell “Donahue!!!” He was my favorite substitute and one of my most favorite people. I’m heartbroken to know I won’t be running into him anymore and I’m even more heartbroken for his family. What an incredible loss for this world. He will be so greatly missed.
My friend my Marine brother the things we did together in several different countries the special times we had with our sidekicks the bond we formed with each other. Save a place for us we will be together again my brother. Sidekick Smitty Semper Fi love you ߇ڰ߇¸
You were a special treasure to me– always quick with a joke– so much fun and such a good guy– rip dear dennis–,
Dennis said we where ‘streaming’ the Shriners on his ‘eye’ pad. We all knew you was not right!!! When we first meet. I would have two beers down before you finished your stories. Too many years and stories to tell. Never met a stranger in your life. You would do anything for anybody. Thank you for teaching me about life over the years. Till we meet again my friend. Love yaߒ™
Christina
Dennis was such a joy to be around, I loved his stories and his wonderful smile. I would tell Mac I was having DENNIS WITHDRAWALS when we didn’t see him or talk to him for a while. A great man that will be missed by many. ߘ¥
was lit in memory of Dennis Francis Donahue
To our great friend and neighbor. We will miss him very much. We will miss seeing Dennis (almost) every day – he and Maggie would come over and visit. We had a lot of discussions on Vietnam, world issues and everyday life. He has been a great friend and neighbor and we will miss him very much.
Dennis was a great man and a great friend. He had the best stories and when he told them he pulled you in like you were there. Dennis loved his fellow veterans and worked diligently on making a difference. I will treasure all tje moments shared at golf outings and will never forget the year he wore a kilt or the year he came to my defense. He was an honorable man with a great smile. We will all miss you very much!
Dennis was a great man and will be greatly missed. One of his biggest accomplishments at the legion (in my opinion) was all the work he did to make sure the Hendricks County World War II vets got to the memorial in Washington DC for it’s opening. That was such a special trip, and an experience my mom and I were so glad to be a part of. Rest In Peace Dennis. Have momma fix you a drink ߘ‰
Absolutely Lisa…
To a real Marine and a true friend. Sgt Donahue was a real leader of Marines. He was loved by all. Just remember Dennis- 'this is the day before, the day before, the day before pre-swoop day' with your 1968 red Chevrolet Impala and a six pack of beer. Thank you Dennis for your service. Semper Fi, Barry Heffner.
I am so grateful for our chance meeting in Kroger a few days ago. It was good to visit
with the two of you and to again thank Commander and 'Ste. Kathryn' for
conducting the American Legion trip to the WWll Memorial Dedication in
Washington, DC. It truly was a high point in the lives of the WWll veterans.!
Please know you have my deepest sympathy.
Barbara Keenan
Dennis was one of the sweetest guys I’ve known! He was a jokester and so much fun to be around! I will always have fond memories of him, especially as Commander of the Legion! He will be sadly missed by everyone. My thoughts and prayers are with Kathy and all of his family and friends.
Working alongside Dennis at Post #331 was so much fun and my pleasure. What an awesome Veteran Dennis was. His comrades were foremost in his mind all the time. You can be very proud of the way Dennis spoke ! I have never seen people at attention like that in my life. You will be so dearly missed my dear friend…and never forgotten. Kathy I will continue to lift you up in prayer for comfort and understanding . Once you get to heaven show them the true meaning of Semper Fi. Love ya buddy !
On behalf of the Société de Police – IPD Adam & Edward, our condolences to the family and friends of Dennis F. Donahue on his departure from this life.
To the family we offer the following thought: When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.
~ For Each Trial Strength To Carry On ~
Thoughts and Prayers with Donahue Family. Dennis was a true human being and never met a stranger. He was always upbeat and always lit up a room. A dedicated father, husband, and marine; he served our COUNTRY WELL! Thanks Dennis for your friendship and GOD BLESS your family. God just gained a angel and a Great Golfing Buddy.
Respect, gave it and earned it! Husband, father, soldier, leader, and a true friend. See you again someday, it was a honor to be part of your life!
I know that Dennis was well loved and respected. He had great character and a big heart. We enjoyed times we shared with him. May all the sweet memories bring you solace during this time. Extending our most heartfelt sympathy to family and friends. Dwane & Catherine Craig
Dennis, we grew up on opposite sides of S. East St. So, I had ‘My World’. Wish I’da gotten to know you better.
Dennis was my good buddy during my Junior and Senior year at Cathedral. He had an infectious sense of humor. Unfortunately, the last time I saw Dennis was the summer/fall of 1966 when he had just enlisted in the Marine Corps and I had just enlisted in the Army. I had heard that we were both serving in Vietnam at the same time but, unfortunately, I lost track of him until very recently. I looked for him at every class reunion and was disappointed not to see him. He will always remain a bright spot in my memories and I’m blessed to have known him.
I had only met Dennis a few times in my life. I’m very sorry to hear of his passing,
Thinking of you all.
Dione Wheatley
I met Dennis over 25 years ago at the Dug Out. No matter how often we ran into each other, he always had a hug and a warm smile for me. His friendship was genuine. My thoughts and prayers go out to Kathy and Kelly. I will miss him.