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RONALD JAMES O’DONOVAN
Born: Jan 23, 1933
Date of Passing: Oct 03, 2023
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryRONALD JAMES O’DONOVAN
Dad passed away peacefully, with son Kevin and daughter in law Heather at his side on October 3, 2023. He was predeceased by his wife of 54 years Eunice, parents John and Evelyn and his three sisters, Kathleen, Margaret, and Averil.
A lifelong resident of Winnipeg, Dad graduated from Daniel Mac Collegiate Institute and joined the Winnipeg Tribune as a District Manager, then moved to CKRC Radio in 1954. In 1961, Dad joined the City of Winnipeg Parks and Recreation Department and spent a total of 31years with the Department, the final 16 of them as their Public Relations Officer.
Dad had a distinguished professional career but undoubtedly will be remembered for his never-ending commitment and support of countless volunteer endeavours. From establishing the Grow a Row and Kids Who Care programs at Winnipeg Harvest to the Red River Exhibition’s Special Kids Day to Schmockey Night in support of the March of Dimes at that time along with dozens and dozens of other community efforts, charitable initiatives, and volunteer causes.
Dad served on countless volunteer Boards including The Manitoba Community Services Council, the Heart & Stroke Foundation and The Red River Exhibition Association to name just a few.
In recognition of Dad’s numerous community contributions, highlights included being appointed a Member of the Order of Canada in 2006 as well as being a Queens Jubilee Medal recipient in 2002 and a Queens 60th Anniversary Medal recipient in 2012.
To Dad, family was everything and it started in his relationship with my late mother Eunice. They both shared the philosophy: “You live in the minds you inspired, in the projects you develop and in the lives you improved, in the hearts that love you, Your influence will not end”. From volunteering to road trips with his grandkids, Dad spread memories far and wide and we are grateful for the number of lives he touched.
Dad is survived by son Kevin, daughter in law Heather, two grandchildren Shawn and his wife Jenna and Aynsley and husband Bryan, and four great-grandchildren Norah, Camden, Aleah, and Halle.
A Celebration of Life service will take place on Friday, October 13 at 10:00 a.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery, 4000 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 07, 2023
Condolences & Memories (14 entries)
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Sorry for your loss, Ron and I worked many times at CKVN, enjoyed every moment. Ron was a good friend. - Posted by: Joseph Webb (Colleague) on: Dec 22, 2023
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Kevin, Heather and Family. I grew up across the backlane from your family. Could always count on Ron to be involved in something fun on Hector Bay. I remember him going house to house on Halloween all dressed up. I spent a lot of time visiting and babysitting you Kevin. Ron gave the Toast to the Bride at my wedding. And when we purchased our first home in Fort Garry, he brought us a tiny little spruce tree. Many fond memories of Ron and Eunice. - Posted by: Valerie Sciberras (Wilson) (Former neighbour) on: Nov 03, 2023
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I work at Red River Coop formerly Safeway. Ron was one of a kind. Never came in the store without a smile & a hello. He was someone who could always get a smile out of you even on the worst of days. I know I will be a better person for having him in my life. Rest east friend. You will be missed. Elaine - Posted by: Elaine Holestine (Friend) on: Oct 12, 2023
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So sorry for your loss, I worked alongside Ron for many years planning and pulling off Schmockey Nights for the Society for Manitobans with Disabilities. He was a kind, caring and compassionate man who really loved this city. Glen Cassie - Posted by: Glen Cassie (Friend) on: Oct 11, 2023
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Kevin, heather and family. Mr. OD, was our backdoor nrighbour. Always organizing something fun on the Bay. Great community man, worked Schmockey with him, so long ago. Ron, you did a great job for humanity. - Posted by: Trucia Howard (Neighbour on Hector bay) on: Oct 10, 2023
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Kevin, I am remembering fondly your dad's warm and funny personality, and although we were living miles apart, I never felt that way when we had opportunities to visit. Surely being able to celebrate his receiving the Order of Canada with him here in Ottawa was a high point for us all. His life was full and blessed. I am sending my sincere condolences on his passing. I am sure your wonderful memories will help to comfort you and your family at this difficult time. - Posted by: Debra Brabazon (Goddaughter) on: Oct 09, 2023
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Many fond memories of the many community events coordinated by Ron. Hector Bay would not have been the same without Ron’s tremendous enthusiasm and personality. All the best to Kevin and family. Herman & Kay Ahrens - Posted by: Kay & Herman Ahrens (Former neighbour) on: Oct 09, 2023
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Mr Od was loved by all the neighbour's on our hector bay! Made it an extra special place to grow up. Organized block parties/bike parade for kids. So many great memories! One special guy, and glad I was able to know him!! - Posted by: Georgie Unsworth (Neighbor ) on: Oct 09, 2023
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Kevin, Heather and family! So sorry for your loss! Our sincere condolences to you and your family! - Posted by: Rick and Linda Kindrachuk (Friend) on: Oct 08, 2023
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Sending my condolences to Kevin and family. Mr O’Donovan will be missed. I remember when we were growing up how involved he was in the community. Still living the area I had the privilege of running in to him time to time, usually at Grant Park Mall. He always took the time to chat and always mentioned Kevin and Family. He was so proud of all of you! - Posted by: Heather (MacDearmid) Hawley (Friend) on: Oct 08, 2023
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My condolences to you Kevin, and your family. Your father was a giant in the fundraising world, he was also instrumental in developing the Harrow community in the 60's and 70's. He will be sorely missed, RIP Mr. O.D. - Posted by: Kelly Hicks (friend) on: Oct 07, 2023
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Kevin, our sincere condolences to you and your family on the passing of your father. Terry & Lyle Connon - Posted by: Terry Connon (Co-worker) on: Oct 07, 2023
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I was very proud to call Ron my friend and extremally proud of all his accomplishments. Met Ron when he was MC for public works week at Kildonan Park and was pleased when we met up at City of Winnipeg Retirees Association. Ron was a big part of the Special Projects Committee keeping things running smoothly at all our events. Ron was a great asset to the City of Winnipeg and C.W.R.A. Rest in peace my friend, you have earned it. - Posted by: Jack Robson (friend) on: Oct 07, 2023
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Kevin and Heather. I met your father when I worked in the Blue Bomber office with Kevin and remember your Dad's dynamic personality. He was a wonderful gentleman. My sincere condolences to you and your family. - Posted by: Pam Ruby (Turnham) (Friend of Kevin) on: Oct 07, 2023
