Martin Donohue
Martin Donohue, 86, of Hamden, CT passed away peacefully with his family by his side at Gaylord Hospital on Sunday, March 29, 2020. Martin was born in Borrisokane, County Tipperary, Ireland on October 30, 1933 to John and Elizabeth (Gaynor) Donohue. Martin immigrated to New York in 1955, where he met and married his wife Mary ‘Pat’ (Cahalan) Donohue. In 1964, Martin and Pat moved to their new home in Hamden, CT where they raised their three children and built a happy life together. What Martin truly valued in life was family, home and work. He worked as a carpenter at Yale University for 29 years and continued to work independently upon his retirement. Carpentry was both Martin’s passion and profession; anyone who knew him, knew he was happiest building in his workshop and sharing his trade with children. He was a man of great integrity, who loved a good conversation with anyone he met. He’ll be remembered for his playful spirit and charming personality along with his Irish brogue and mischievous smile. Martin was a member of the IACC, the IHRT and the CTIAHS as well an active member in the Divine Mercy Parish (Saint Rita Church). Martin and Pat were fortunate to be able to travel to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico and much of both Europe and the US. One of their most cherished trips was bringing their granddaughters back home to Ireland where Martin was able to share his love of Ireland with them. Martin is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Pat, his daughters Maureen Donohue of Cambridge, MA and Patricia Fredette (Eric) of West Hartford and their children Kaitlin and Megan who brought him much joy and happiness. In addition, he leaves behind his sisters, Patricia and Ess and his brother Patrick along with a host of relatives in Ireland, England and Canada. He was predeceased by his parents; his son John (2019); his brothers Michael, Eammon, John, and Joseph, and his sisters; Maureen, Kathleen and Agnes. Martin’s family would like to thank the staff at Hooker 1, Gaylord Hospital for their exceptional care of Martin during his final days. A private burial was held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Hamden. His Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for family and friends will be held on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 11:00 am at Divine Mercy Parish (St. Rita Church) , Hamden. Donations in Martin’s name may be made to the Friends of the Hamden Library or to Gaylord Hospital. Arrangements are in care of BEECHER & BENNETT FUNERAL HOME, 2300 Whitney Ave, Hamden.
Services
Memorial Mass: August 21, 2021 11:00 am
St. Rita Church
1620 Whitney Avenue
Hamden, CT 06517
203-248-5513
A man who will never be replaced! Always first one to ask what do you need me to do Martin it was my pleasure of meeting you number of years ago you were always the Perfect Gentleman. I was a very lucky person to have you around after many functions at the club always willing to give a hand Until we Meet Again Rest In Peace
Martin, you had been a great member in our Yoga Team at Hamden Elderly Services attending 3 days a week Yoga Sessions with full dedication and always pleasant to talk to. Your kind words to me and our team will be remembered for a long time. Team members pray to Almighty God to rest your soul in peace and provide strength to the family to bear the loss ! Ravi Vashi Hamden Yoga Instr
Martin was the true essence of old-school Irish, a humble & kind gentleman, a master craftsman that took great pride in everything he did, no one knew a dove tail better than Martin, one of the best. Honesty ran through his bones & as Joe said love leaves a memory no one can steal. He loved his family, so proud of his kids. He was broken hearted with John suffering. Martin had a heart of gold & would always make you welcome, loved a shot of whiskey and a good chat. We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain Always a smile, instead of a frown, Always a hand, when one is down, Always true, thoughtful and kind, To walk with us throughout our lives, Wonderful memories you left behind Until we meet again.
Dear Pat…I have been thinking of both of you as I pass the Putnam Avenue house on my walks to deliver newspapers to Stan Spilecki. How sad it was to read Martin’s obituary in the paper this morning. How I cherish our frequent but brief conversations back in the day, always starting with the .How’s the family, John.. Suzanne joins me in sending our heartfelt sympathy to you, Maureen and Pattty. We look forward to gathering in his memory when conditions permit. Peace and love…
How sad to read of Martin’s passing. I’m glad that our paths crossed not so long ago at the gas station. We shared a laugh – I said, -Who let you out?- – and I enjoyed, as always, his lovely Irish brogue. Words that spring to mind when I think about him: kind, decent, upright, warm, generous, and honest to a fault. Our community is much the poorer without him. May he Rest In Peace. My deepest sympathy to Pat, his daughters and the rest of his family.
I am greatly saddened to read about Martin’s passing. He was truly a kind and gentle man. He was a great conversationalist and always had a warm smile to go with it. I am so sorry we cannot gather together to comfort you in your grief and exchange wonderful stories about Martin. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Our sincere condolences to Pat, Maureen, Patty and the rest of Martin’s family. We are sorry we didn’t get to know you better as friends and neighbors.
Sending our love and thoughts to Martin’s family. You were all truly special to our family over many years! Martin was kind and caring and showed his love to our children and they loved him in return. Thank you! Sophie and Peter
Sitting here, not ashamed to say – crying like a baby – as I try to type, still in shock by ‘our loss’, a hole in my heart. My wife & I were so very blessed to have met Martin several years ago on Thornton Street. A friendship began to blossom immediately; we truly became good friends, as a dear friend we had known for a lifetime. One of the absolute finest people my wife & I have ever met ….so humble, so caring for, so respectful of, others. So many beautiful qualities, so many talents of which he could have boasted & bragged, but didn’t; it was just not in his being. Was always ‘awed’ when in his presence, by his wisdom & gentle manner. An Angel on Earth now called back to Heaven ….and with you Martin, goes a piece of all of us. Pat, Maureen, Patricia, family all ….in this time of sadness and pain, may the many ‘memories cherished’ bring you blessings of peace & love…. Charlie & Carol Perrotti
So saddened to learn of Martin’s passing. Such a gentleman, who put a smile on my face every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at yoga. A kind gentle soul. You will be sorely missed.
Martin, You added so much gentleness and levity to our Yoga Family. We will miss your lighthearted spirit. You live on in so many warm memories.
My husband and I met Martin at an ILR luncheon and immediately felt his warmth and friendship. We invited him to join our North Haven Bocce group, and he became a welcomed member for several years. He was so kind and quickly joined our joking with one another. His gentleness made him a beloved member. We are so sad about his passing.
My lovely, gentle Uncle Martin, so many great memories of you, visiting us every 2 years. We all looked forward to your visits, especially Mum, who genuinely loved you. She told us so many childhood stories of you both getting up to mischief. I loved our visit to Putnam Avenue a couple of years ago, being made so welcome by yourself and Pat. Our thoughts and prayers are with all your family. Maelisa x