Joseph P. Donovan

Joseph Philip Donovan was born on the family farm near Hartland on December 6, 1922, to Thomas and Mary Nolan Donovan. He was a lifelong resident of Hartland and graduated from Freeborn High School. Joe entered the United States Navy in 1944 and served during World War II on Samar Island, Philippines, in the Asiatic Pacific Theater. After his discharge, he returned home and worked at Streater's in Albert Lea for many years and farmed. He was a member of Church of All Saints in New Richland and the Albert Lea American Legion and VFW. Survivors include his brother, Tom of Hartland; sister-in-law, Frances "Murph" Donovan of Albert Lea; lifelong friend and companion, Vivian Abraham of New Richland; nieces and nephews: Rosemary Richard Hughes, Gerald "Butch" Patricia Donovan, Joan Jack Gaughan, Dorothy Dick Blue, Mary Ron Splett, Charles Mickelson, John Barbara Mickelson, Mike Donovan, Bob Donovan, Dan Chris Donovan, Tim Barb Donovan, Dick Dianne Donovan, Barbara Tom Hilson, Sue Bill Mullen, Jim Kim Donovan, Bill Sheri Donovan, Bill Lee, Jim Marilyn Lee, Mary Mike Quinlivan; and many great-nieces and great-nephews. He is also survived by many wonderful friends and neighbors. He was "Uncle Joe" to all. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Frances and husband, Carl Mickelson and Catherine and husband, John Lee; brothers: Leo Donovan, John and wife, Monica Donovan, William Donovan, and Raymond Donovan in infancy; and nephew, Patrick Donovan. Blessed be his memory. Ave!