Beatrice Allena Donovan

November 23rd, 1914 - July 25th, 2006

Beatrice Allena's Memory Wall

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I originally met Mother Beatrice many, many years ago on one of her visits to
Seattle to visit her son, and my good friend, Chuck.

Mother Beatrice was an industrious woman, always up to something and making the most of her time. I remember the visit in which she resurfaced Chuck's kitchen countertops and painted his apartment floor - how she had the energy to complete all that is beyond me.

And Mother Beatrice treasured her family - a wonderful trait to have in these times when families grow so far apart. It is no surprise that both Chuck and her younger son, Barry, relocated back to the family farm to be close to Mother Beatrice and her sister, Aunt Genevieve Farrell.

Mother Beatrice will be missed by all who knew her.

Cynthia Johnson

Bea was a wonderful woman; and so is her sister, Genevieve. I was working at Calvin Funeral Home when their father died. Roy Slentz and I took care of him and I remember well how much they loved him; they referred to him as “Little Father”, in a most endearing way. I remember Aleta and the boys, too, from high school; and the tragedy of Aleta dying at such a young age. What a beautiful and talented family. Genevieve, Charles & Barry please know that I am thinking of you and that these memories are important to me.

Jim Bauschke

Bea made such a positive difference in so many lives.

I first go to know Bea when the choir went to Vienna and she seemed to be everywhere; her boundless enthusiasm kept parents and students going on project after project. I have often wished, over a long career teaching music, for just one choir parent with half as much energy and commitment!

After college, I taught at Benton Harbor High School for many years. When visiting my parents in South Haven, I would occasionally stop at the grocery to pick up items. I always enjoyed seeing Bea, who always remembered who I was and caught me up with all the hometown news.

Due to Bea's determination, dedication and effectiveness in overseeing accessibility to the swimming pool, when my mother developed problems with mobility, she was able to take the water exercise class. At a time in life when most people's social circles diminish, Mom's widened. Even after she was unable to participate in the class, Mom was always included in social gatherings with her new friends, a fitting tribute to Bea, whose affability was so well known.

Please accept my condolences on your loss. In your mourning, I hope you are able to rejoice in Bea's legacy of faith, fortitude and friendliness.

Sincerely,

Liz Giegerich

Elisabeth Giegerich

Chuck and Barry, I am very sorry for the loss of your mom. I never got to meet her but ate her shredded wheat bread regularly. She sounds like a heck of a lady. You may not remember me, but I was Aleta's college roommate at Mason Hall when she was a junior. (Chuck, I was one of passengers to NY at Thanksgiving 1975.) Aleta and I lost track of one another when she went off to California to follow her dreams. I am shocked and saddened to learn through your mom's obit that you lost Aleta long ago. My God be with you. Joanne

Beatrice Allena Donovan

Beatrice Allena's Memory Wall

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