John William Donavan

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John William Donavan, 73, of Hyrum, Utah, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on March 18, 2025, following a long, valiant health battle. He was born on March 26, 1951, in Logan, Utah, to Jack Hilder Donavan and Annette Bickmore Donavan Peterson.

John graduated from Logan High School in 1969 and then met the love of his life while attending Utah State University. He married Maurine Forsgren on June 26, 1970, and they were later sealed for time and all eternity in the Logan Temple.

John, lovingly known as “Big J”, was a man of towering stature, strength, and presence. With his warm heart, sharp wit, and love for good conversation, he brought joy and laughter to everyone he met. A lifelong learner, John was passionate about consistently expanding his knowledge on various topics and was always eager to share one of his famous “life lessons.” His experiences, wisdom, and analytical brilliance, coupled with his near-photographic memory, enriched the lives of those fortunate enough to know him.

John believed in the value of hard work and taught his children the same. They recall the countless projects he devised, not out of necessity but to instill productivity and discipline in them. John’s hands bore the marks of his mechanical genius—bruises, cuts, and grease were constant companions as he tackled one project after another. His love for motors and toys was evident, beginning in his younger years with his cherished Chevelle muscle car and later in life with his trucks, boats, snowmobiles, four-wheelers, and side-by-sides.

The outdoors were John’s sanctuary. Whether skiing, hiking, or shooting, he found peace and joy in the mountains. A human GPS, he had every backroad imprinted in his memory. Among all the places he explored, Yellowstone National Park held a special place in his heart. He created cherished memories camping there with his beloved grandchildren, sharing his love for nature with the next generation.

Music was another of John’s passions, and it filled his home with energy and life. Every Saturday morning, his stereo would wake the household—and likely the neighbors—as he played tunes from every genre. This vibrant love for music continues to resonate with his wife and children.

John was a man of unwavering integrity and honesty. His straightforward nature ensured you always knew where you stood with him. A champion of the underdog, he quietly extended a helping hand to those in need—be it providing Christmas for struggling families or inviting the lonely to share Thanksgiving dinner. His acts of kindness and service were often done without fanfare but with immense love. He spent his time seeking those that needed a friend the most.

Above all, John cherished his family. His wife, children, and grandchildren were his greatest treasures, and he protected and loved them fiercely. Our family is blessed with a legacy of close relationships and countless memories, all thanks to the remarkable man John was. His memory and the values he lived by will continue to inspire and guide us.

John is survived by his wife of 54 years, Maurine, and three of his children; daughter Michelle (Matt) Smith of Wellsville, daughter Kelley (Scott) Robinson of Plain City and son Scott (Mandy) of Providence and his sister, Christine Donavan of Logan. He is also survived by eight grandchildren who were his pride and joy; Brynley, Sydney, Kacie, Max, Jackson, Emersyn, Alivia, and Sawyer (and his bonus grandchildren who he also adored). He was proceeded in death by his parents, his stepfather Clarence Bradford Peterson, and his daughter Jennifer Donavan.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 24 at 12pm at the Allen Hall Mortuary in Logan, Utah. Viewings will be held from 6pm-8pm on Sunday, March 23 and from 10am-11:30am on Monday March 24.

The family would like to thank Dr. Salisbury, Dr. Smith and his favorite nurse, Misty Rich, who made his final days brighter and more comfortable. His final joke was shared with her.

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com.

*Disclaimer: If for some reason the livestream of the Funeral Service does not work we will record the service and upload the video and/or audio recording at a later date.*