Dennis Robert Donahue

Dennis “Denny” Robert Donahue, 78, passed away suddenly on April 29, 2021 surrounded by his loving family. Dennis was born on September 13, 1942 and raised in Springfield by his late parents Robert and Norma (Geoffino) Donahue.
After graduating from Commerce High School, Denny enlisted in the US Coast    Guard where he served for four years. Dennis worked as a Springfield Firefighter for 30 years until his retirement in 1998. He was a member of the Springfield Lodge of Elks #61 and belonged to the Italian American Citizens Club. Denny loved his family and enjoyed vacations to the ocean, years of coaching his children’s sports teams, cherished time with his grandchildren, watching their sporting events, having a Schaffer, and scratching lottery tickets.
Denny was witty and he was always ready for a good conversation. He had a giant heart and touched the lives of many. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 54 years Patricia (Douglas) Donahue of Springfield, his children Kellee Donahue and her partner Lawrence Pelland of Springfield, Kristin Grohe and her husband Dennis of Collegeville, PA, Dennis Donahue and his wife Julie of Wilbraham, and Kerri Fiorentino and her husband Jamie of Springfield, his grandchildren Eric Szymczyk, Dennis, Emma and Tessa Grohe, Ashley, Riordan, Mackenna, and Braedon Donahue, and Dominic Fiorentino, his brother Robert Donahue and his wife Lori of Windsor CT, his nieces and nephews Bobby, Mary and Rory Donahue, his deep-rooted friendship with Nizzi and Mike, and extended family and friends. Calling hours will be on Wednesday May 5, 2021 from 4-7pm at Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation, 220 North Main St., East Longmeadow. A celebration of life will follow at 7:00pm.
Memorial contributions in Dennis’ name may be made to Lupus Foundation of America, 2121 K Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20037-1830 or any charity of one’s choice. To leave an online condolence, visit www.forastiere.com.