John R Donnelly, 91, of Panton, Vermont, passed away Wednesday, April 2nd, at 8:45 PM at his home. Born on January 15th, 1935 in Waterbury, Connecticut to Eugene and Margret Donnelly. John lived a long and invigorating life, his youthful energy always outstripping his age. His love for the outdoors and teaching was only surpassed by his love for his wife Melinda Donnelly.
John is survived by his wife Melinda (Mindy) Donnelly, his four children; Dorothy Perkett of Vermont, her husband Chris and their son Dashiell; Annie Donnelly of Florida, Tom Donnelly of Maryland and his wife Karen; Sarah Donnelly of California, and many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family.
John proudly served in the US Air Force during the end of the Korean War, utilizing the resulting GI bill to enter the collegial world as an undergrad at the University of Vermont, ending with a PhD from the University of Michigan. His specialty was forestry, a passion he followed throughout his life. He was a professor and professor emeritus for 40 years at the University of Vermont, teaching generations of students the wonders of nature and forestry.
John and his wife Mindy were avid sailors, taking their love for the outdoors onto Lake Champlain and beyond. Later in his sailing career John discovered the pleasure of sailing with the Diamond Island Yacht Club, and he and Mindy were members for years.
Calling hours will be at Brown-McClay Funeral Home, Vergennes, Wednesday, April 8, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am April 9 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Vengennes, Vermont. There will be a reception to follow at Saint Peter’s Parish Hall. Arrangements are in care of Brown-McClay Funeral Home, Vergennes.
Memorial contributions can be made to the National Park Foundation at www.nationalparks.org
One Response
Dear Mindy and the Donnelly family,
I just learned that John recently passed away. I send my deepest condolences to your family. I had the pleasure of working closely with Doc for many years, including co-teaching with him and travelling to Great Smoky Mountain National Park with him and students for many years. His passion for teaching was contagious, and his deep commitment to his students and their success was inspiring. Most of all, he loved his family deeply and was so proud of all of you. I learned so much by simply being in his presence. While I have not seen or talked with Doc for many years, I have fond memories of a joyful friend who loved life immensely, never complained, and always had a big smile on his face. He made an enormous and positive impact on so many; he will be sorely missed. I wish you the best as you grieve and cherish fond memories of this precious gem of a man. Don DeHayes