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Alan Gilbert Donovan, 79, of Naples, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2026, at University Hospitals in Cleveland, Ohio.
Born on February 3, 1947, in Akron, Ohio, Alan was the son of Harry and Mabel Donovan. Although originally from Ohio, Alan made Naples, Florida, his home for the last 50 years of his life.
Alan spent his career investing in Real Estate, a passion that suited his independent spirit and sharp eye for a good opportunity. He was also a true lover of food. He enjoyed cooking, collecting recipes, discovering local restaurants, and searching for the best meal—and, of course, the best deal—wherever his travels took him.
Alan found joy in the outdoors and had a lifelong love of fishing and hunting. Whether casting a line, spending time in the woods, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, the outdoors gave Alan a sense of adventure and countless memories that he carried with him throughout his life. He also looked forward to attending the Medina County Fair every year. Alan was known for his funny personality, quick wit, stubborn but loving nature, and his ability to always have a story to tell. Many of those stories began with his familiar, “Member when?”—an opening that could lead anywhere and was usually followed by a story worth hearing.
Alan will be remembered for his humor, his witty replies, his love of food and adventure, and his ability to make people laugh. Above all, he will be remembered for the love he had for his family and his beloved fur baby, Roxcie, who was a special and cherished part of his life.
Alan is survived by his children, Jeff Donovan (Claire) and Kelly Bonfiglio (John); his grandchildren, Craig, Brittany, and Taylor Donovan (John), and Parker, Hunter, and Cole Bonfiglio; his great-granddaughter, Aliana; and his siblings, Harry Donovan (Kay) and Debbie Elton and many loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Mabel Donovan.
The family will receive friends FRIDAY, September 4, 2026 from 5:00-8:00 P.M. at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd. Akron, OH 44333. A graveside service and entombment will take place 11:00 A.M. SATURDAY, September 5, 2026, at Rose Hill Burial Park, 3653 W. Market St. Akron, OH 44333.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Alan’s memory to One of A Kind Pet Rescue in Akron, Ohio, an organization that reflects his love for animals.
Alan leaves behind a lifetime of stories, memories, laughter, and the people and animals he loved. And while there may be one more story waiting to be told, we can almost hear him asking, “Member when?”
Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333 (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)
Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel
Rose Hill Burial Park
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