Gene William Donovan

Gene William Donovan, beloved husband, father and friend, passed away November 30, 2025, at the age of 73.

Gene was born on August 11, 1952 in Indianapolis, Indiana to the late William J. and Ida C. (Boston) Donovan. He lived in Speedway for 67 years and is survived by his wife Susan M. (Parient) Donovan of 35 ½ yrs and their son Ryan M. Donovan. He is also survived by his sister. Catherine F. (Donovan) Stephen of California.

Gene was a 1970 graduate of Speedway High School. At the age of 17, Gene enlisted with US Army and after his basic training, he was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina with the 82nd Airborne. He was very proud of his military service.

When he returned home, he pursued his dream of becoming a police officer and was appointed on February 1, 1974 to the Marion County Sheriff’s Department. After 33 yrs and 11 months, he retired at the rank of Lieutenant with IMPD on January 1, 2008. He cherished his memories of those years, especially when he was in the K9 unit with his K9 partner, Thor. However, his retirement was short lived, 90 days to be exact. Susan insisted (because prison orange was not in her color pallet!) that he needed to find something to do, so he called the MCSO to see if there was something for an old, retired guy like him to keep him busy. It was the perfect retirement job; he was able to rekindle old friendships from the past and made a lot of new friendships during those 12 ½ yrs. Gene finally retired at the rank of Sargent on October 30. 2020.

Gene was very passionate about his hunting and fishing with old and new friends. Sharing the holidays with family, including with Marissa Schofield and ‘granddaughter’ Makenna Miller. Being the officiant for Ron and Cassandra Metcalf’s wedding and sharing the countless stories of his escapades (cough), we mean his career with everyone.

Susan and Ryan would like to thank their niece/cousin Keri (Parient) Lopez and Ron Metcalf. Their love and support during Gene’s last moments meant the world to them.

Memorial services will be held at Flanner Buchanan - Speedway. 2950 N High School Road Indianapolis, Indiana on Saturday, December 20, 2025, with visitation between 11:00 am to 1:00pm. Memorial Services will be held following visitation at 1:00 pm.

In Gene’s memory, and love of their adopted German Shepherds, Susan and Ryan ask that memorial contributions be sent to GSD Rescue Indy PO Box 39413, Indianapolis, IN 46239 or online by clicking HERE