Philip J Donovan

Meddybemps – Philip Joseph Donovan, 93, passed away Thursday, July 28, 2011 with his family by his side. Philip was born in Calais on March 19, 1918, son of the late Joseph and Gertrude (Colford) Donovan. He graduated from high school in Lewiston and worked for several years in the shoe factories in Lewiston before coming back to Calais. Philip entered the U.S. Army and served in Southern France, Rhineland and Central Europe during WWII. After the war, he returned home and met the love of his life, Edna Stanhope. They were married on May 3, 1946. Philip was employed as a mechanic and tractor trailer driver until his retirement in 1993. He was a Communicant of Immaculate Conception R.C. Church in Calais, a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #149, St. Croix Bowling Club, and was a Past Commander of Sherman Bros. Post #3 American Legion. Philip enjoyed puttering around the yard, fishing and visiting with his many friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a daughter, Linda Ross; his brother Karl Donovan; and a nephew, Peter Donovan. Surviving are his loving wife of 65 years, Edna Donovan; his daughter Melva Long of Alexander; two grandchildren, Lee Roderick and his wife Marilyn of Meddybemps, and Jessica Melhiser of Calais; four great-grandchildren, Mallory and Alex Roderick, and Ashley and Ryan Melhiser; son-in-law John Ross of Guntersville, AL; sister-in-law Marion Lagel of South Windsor, CT; four nephews, Wayne, David, Gregory and Louis Donovan; and many cousins and dear friends. Visiting hours will be held 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Sunday, July 31, at Mays Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Calais. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Fr. James Plourde 10 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception R.C. Church, Calais Ave., in Calais. Burial will follow in Calais Cemetery.