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Bill D. Donaho, age 71, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, of Colorado Springs, passed away unexpectedly on May 22, 2023. We rejoice that he is now with His Heavenly Father. Bll was born on July 28, 1951, in Holdenville, Oklahoma, to Bill G. and Joyce Donaho. He was the first born, being big brother to his sister Charlotte. Growing up in Oklahoma City, he showed an early affection for the military as he played with his toy soldiers and military vehicles, quietly strategizing and executing battle plans. He also found a love for motorcycles that continued throughout his life. At the age of 14, he went to work at a grocery store and developed a deep work ethic which served him well in life. Through his job, his generous spirit was seen as he enjoyed taking his family out for burgers and fries and used his work money to pay for it. Bill came to know Christ when he was 16, was baptized and began to sense God had a calling on his life to serve Him. Throughout his life, in combination with his generous spirit, this calling would be evident. Bill lived a life of generosity and deep devotion, and a love for God, family, and country. As God began to work in Bill’s life, he developed a love for God’s word, both teaching it and sharing it with others. He graduated from Midwest City High School in 1969 and then attended the University of Central Oklahoma, leaving briefly to enlist in the United States Army, knowing God had a path for him. He spent time early in his career as a chaplain assistant. After completing his enlistment, he returned to college and graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma, followed by his commission as an officer. Bill then embarked on a long career in the military, living in Missouri, Kentucky, Germany, Alabama, and Colorado. During his time in the service, Bill met Lynn Baldvins at Ft. McClellan, Alabama. They were married on November 12, 1988. Together they loved to travel, visiting Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Greece, China, Tibet, and South Africa. He loved living in Colorado and all the outside adventures, including riding his motorcycle and hunting. After retirement as a Major in the United States Army, he completed culinary school and became a chef, furthering his love of food and good meals. He was generous with his time and talent, preparing meals for family and friends. He was always entertaining, and relished hearing the stories of others. Bill had a wonderful sense of humor and frequently had friends laughing, even during Bible study! He loved spending time with his church family, serving as a Gideon for several years, and volunteering with an after-school program for grade school kids. Bill is survived by his devoted wife of 34 years, Lynn Baldvins; his son, Russ Donaho (Amanda) and his daughter, Jennifer Harmon (Ryan); precious grandchildren Amelia, Hoyt, and Natalie; sister Charlotte Donaho; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Bill G; his mother, Joyce (Mullins) Donaho. Family and friends were important to Bill. He loved each deeply and would do anything for anyone. He is terribly missed but we are confident he is with His God and we will see him again. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 23rd, 2023, at 10:00am at Woodmen Valley Chapel - Stone Chapel, 280 West Woodmen Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80919. Bill will be laid to rest privately at Pikes Peak National Cemetery in Colorado Springs, CO. |
