Obituary - Dean Russell Donovan

Dean Russell Donovan age 76 of Drexel passed away on March 29, 2024 at his home surrounded by family. Memorial services will be held Saturday, April 20, 2024 at the Christian Church in Drexel, Missouri. A visitation will follow services, also at the church. Services under the direction of Mullinax Funeral Home, Drexel Chapel (816-657-4400). Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

Dean was born on November 22, 1947 in Kansas City Missouri. He was the son of Robert Edward lee Donovan and Thelma Naomi Hubbard. As a child Dean went to Coldwater school near Lyle north of Drexel MO. When Coldwater was shut down, he attended Drexel R-4 where he received his diploma. In 1965 he joined the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1968. Following the Air Force Dean decided to further his education and attend SMSU where he received a bachelor's in secondary education. In 1969 Dean married Mary Jane Bailey and they remained married until his death. They were married for 54 years. After college he taught English at Cassville High School for one year. It only took him one year to figure out that teaching was not for him. Afterwards he had a couple of different jobs ending up at the Federal Records Administration where he spent 36 years. Finally retiring as the Director of the Lee’s Summit branch in 2011.

Dean enjoyed helping people and was a volunteer EMT in Drexel MO for many years until it was disbanded. He enjoyed fixing cars and working with his hands. And was always there to help someone with a project. If he didn't know how to do it, he would figure it out. He was very giving and would give someone the shirt off his back if it would help them. He also loved the outdoors and sitting around a fire with his friends and family. Dean touched the lives of so many people and he will be greatly missed by all.

He was proceeded in death by his parents Bob and Thelma, brothers Dale and Robert Donovan, brother-in-law Tom Heidrick, son-in-law Bobby Corlew, and nephew Robbie Donovan. Dean is survived by his wife Mary Donovan of the home, daughter Cindy Corlew of the home, son Tim and daughter-in-law Destiny Donovan Grandview MO, brother David Donovan and wife Edna of lola, KS, brother Daryl Donovan and wife Elaine of Sevierville, TN, sister Lucy Heidrick of Humbolt ,KS, sister in laws Kate Donovan of lola, KS and Connie Donovan of Adrian, MO, grand children Jesse Donovan, Jordan Moles, River Donovan, and Mayson Mero, great grandson Christopher Allen, adopted sons Mark Melton and Billy Goben and many other family and friends. "Thank you, Dad, for everything you did for us and the love you shared. You will be truly missed and we will always love you." -Cindy & Tim