James Phillip Donovan's Obituary
James P. Donovan, longtime resident of Pomona, passed away on October 31, 2014, at the age of 72.
He was born in Muskegon, Michigan, July 13, 1942. Jim moved with his family to CA in 1957 where he attended Pomona Catholic High School. Jim as a young man worked throughout high school at many local jobs in Pomona, including; Tastee Freeze, Fletchers and Union 76 gas stations to help his Mother support and care for his family.
His adult career of 25 years is highlighted by his work with the CA State Dept. of Youth Authority at the Youth Training School (YTS) in Chino and Fred C. Nelles School in Whittier, as a senior Treatment Supervisor. He initiated and administered many programs used throughout the youth correctional department . He was instrumental in the writing of the D.D. S. criminal justice system program and received numerous awards for outstanding work in his field. Jim had the respect of his peers, co-workers and youth population throughout his years of service.
Jim married Paula Toliver in 1965 and along with her raised her daughter Cyndie and together they welcomed a son, John Paul.
His family grew to include two more daughters, Jennifer Marie and Kristine Nicole with his second marriage to Roma Lamb.
In 1996, Jim married Irma Avina and they made their home in Crestline, CA together they enjoyed their mountain community. Jim's pastimes included handyman projects, working on cars and spending time with his beloved animals in the outdoors.
Jim leaves behind a family who cared and loved him. He is survived by his wife Irma, and stepdaughter Jodi, his four children; Cyndie Hoyle, John Paul Donovan, Jennifer Brennan and Kristine McGuire. His siblings; Joan Kiss of MI., Patrice Sager of TX, William Evans of NV, Pamela Wahler of MD, Debora Maldonado and Laura Boucher of CA. Jim had 6 grandchildren, as well as 24 nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis (Dunn) Donovan and Lorraine A. (Donovan ) Evans, Paula(Donovan) Armendariz and his brother, John Donovan.
The family is privately spending this time remembering Jim Through a time of reflection and prayers to honor and respect his life. The family requests individuals who wish to honor his memory donate to a local animal shelter or give to The American Heart Association.
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