James J. Donahue

James John Donahue of Scranton, PA died in his home on April 13th, 2016, lovingly surrounded by his children. He was 86 years old. James (Jim) was born and grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania before joining the Navy at the age of 17. His Naval career lasted 26 years. While in the Navy, Jim served as a Diver, Explosives Ordinance Disposal expert and he fought heroically in the Vietnam War earning a Bronze Star Medal. It was during his service that he met and married Carmen Thibault of Lewiston, Maine who bore him five children; James, Lynn, Mark, Kathleen, and Carol Ann. After retiring from the Navy as a 1st Lieutenant, Jim and his family settled down in San Diego, California where he attended San Diego State University and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business. Jim lived in San Diego, a city he adored, for the rest of his life. After Jim and Carmen divorced, Jim settled in Rancho Peňasquitos, a suburb of San Diego. Jim enjoyed many hobbies including sailing, gardening, cooking, entertaining, half-marathons, triathlons, photography, and he especially enjoyed caring for his Koi pond in his later years.

Jim Donahue was a man who was passionate about life and lived it to the fullest. He loved the United States of America and he frequently drove cross country to see her.

James John Donahue is survived by four children, (his eldest son James passed away in 1984) Lynn Sullivan, Mark Donahue, Kathleen Donahue, and Carol Ann Donahue and eight Grandchildren; Kaden Byron, Jamie McLaughlin, Eric Tucker, Jordan Byron, Evan Tucker, Lynn Rose Donahue, Lauren Sullivan, and Manon Sullivan. He leaves an abysmal void and our hearts ache from our loss.

Services are to be held April 29th, 2016 at 2:30 PM at:

Miramar National Cemetery

5795 Nobel Drive

San Diego, CA 92122

April 29th, 2016 at 2:30 PM