Stephen Michael Donovan

Stephen Michael Donovan, age 56, passed away unexpectedly at Maine Medical Center on January 3, 2016. Born in Norwood, Massachusetts on August 6, 1959, he was the son of the late Harold "Hap" and Diane (Leary) Donovan. He was raised in Sharon, Massachusetts where he played Pop Warner Football and Little League throughout his childhood. Stephen was an outstanding athlete, receiving many honors during his four years at Sharon High School. He was the soccer team's goal keeper and a shooting guard on the basketball team. After his graduation in 1977, Stephen was honored for his athletic achievements and was inducted into the Sharon High School Athletic Hall of Fame. He continued his education at the University of Southern Maine, where his love for athletics continued as a member of their basketball team. Following his graduation in 1981, Stephen made Maine his permanent home.

Stephen spent his working career as a sales representative for several companies in Maine; however his real passion was sports. He spent 35 years officiating basketball at the middle school, high school, and college levels. As an active member of his Cape Elizabeth community, he was a staunch supporter of his children's athletic programs and he loved the opportunity to serve as a volunteer coach for his children. Stephen's quick wit and sense of humor led to him being a well liked and respected member of his community.

His love for sports did not end with coaching and officiating, as he was an avid Boston sports fan. He enjoyed following the Celtics and Red Sox, taking any opportunity he could to attend one of their games. In addition to basketball, Stephen enjoyed spending time on the golf course to improve his game. Most of all, Stephen's family meant the world to him and he always looked forward to his family's Florida vacations.

Loving father of Lauren Anna Donovan of San Diego, CA, Matthew Joseph Donovan of South Portland and Emily Jane Donovan of Portland.
Devoted brother of Nancy E. Buckley and her husband Joseph of Stoughton and Patty Donovan of Sharon.
Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Stephen's Life Celebration on Friday, January 8, 2016 from 4-7PM in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole. A Funeral Home Service will be held on Saturday, January 9, 2016 at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow in Rock Ridge Cemetery in Sharon. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to the American Diabetes Assoc. of Maine, P. O. Box 10310, Portland, ME 04104.