William H. Donovan

William H. Donovan, 87

Troy- William H. Donovan, 87, of Troy, died Friday, June 8, 2007 at Samaritan Hospital.

Bill was born in Troy, the son of the late Eve and James Donovan.

After attending St. Michael's College in Vermont, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1942 and served the country during World War II as a technician in the Army's 78th Infantry "Lightning" Division. After intense language instruction in Japanese at an Army training program at Yale University, he participated in campaigns at Ardennes-Alsace, Central Europe and Rhineland and received the American Service Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern medal and the World War II Victory Medal. After his final discharge from the Army in 1952, he enjoyed a 25-year career with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, retiring in 1980. As part of his career, he was involved in important projects involving defense contractors for the Department of the Air Force.

Known for his charm and wit, Bill was a world traveler who was fluent in several languages, and he continued to travel the globe until he was well into his 80's. He also was familiar to many for his long walks around Troy and for his lifelong dedication to his sister, Joan.

He is survived by his sister, Joan Donovan of Troy, and nephews, Steven Boggess of East Greenbush and Michael Donovan of Lockport. He was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Ellen Donovan Baker, and his brother, J. Walter Donovan.

A memorial service will be held Monday, June 25^th at the Eddy Memorial- Barbara Simmons Chapel at 10am with Rev. William A. Gorman, Pastor of St. Paul the Apostle Church in Troy, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eddy Memorial Geriatric Center, 2256 Burdett Avenue, Troy, NY 12180.

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