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    • Caskets
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    • Urns
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    • Thumbprint Jewelry
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    • Important Facts
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Where Heritage and Life are celebrated.

Gerald Wesley Donovan

October 31, 1948- July 31, 2021

Gerald Wesley Donovan of Chesapeake Beach, Maryland peacefully passed away at his home on Saturday, July 31st. Gerald was surrounded by his loving wife, Mary, daughter Mary Lanham, and sons Wesley and Ryan along with their families, his siblings, and many of his grandchildren.

Gerald was born on October 31, 1948 to the late Daphne and Fred Donovan. Gerald attended Calvert High School, Baltimore College of Commerce, Prince George’s Community College, and University of Maryland.

Gerald is survived by his wife Mary E. Donovan of Chesapeake Beach, sons Wesley and wife Julie of Dunkirk, Ryan and husband Erik of New York City, Roger O’Dell of Drum Point, daughters Mary Lanham and husband Mike of Dunkirk, and Veronica Fleming and husband Ricky of Flinton, Pennsylvania. He is survived by sisters Joan Kilmon of Huntingtown, Gail Harkins of Chesapeake Beach, Diane Harrison and husband Griffith of Huntingtown, brother Freddie Donovan and wife Carol of Chesapeake Beach. Thirteen grandchildren and five great grandchildren survive Gerald. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter Addison Donovan and son Ricky O’Dell.

Gerald was a humble man who loved to serve. As a young man, he was on active duty in the US Marine Corps from 1968 to 1971. He was a former president and a lifetime member of the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department. Gerald graduated from Leadership Maryland, was an executive committee member of the Maryland Tourism Board, and a board member of the Maryland Restaurant Association. He served a term as chairman of the Calvert County Democratic Central Committee and initiated the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum.

One of his proudest accomplishments was starting the Cancer Gala/Celebration of Life along with his brother Freddie in memory of their father, Fred. Together, they raised more than $4 million dollars in thirty years of events for the American Cancer Society. In 2011, Mary and Gerald received The American Cancer Society’s Award of Excellence for Income Development in honor of their efforts during the thirty years of the event.

Gerald served on the Chesapeake Beach town council from 1976 to 1983. After being appointed mayor in 1983, he went on to be elected for six straight terms as mayor from 1984 until 2008, when he retired after thirty-two years of service. As mayor, many of his accomplishments are enjoyed by thousands of residents and guests every year: the Water Park, the Railway Trail, Bayfront Park, the town’s annual fireworks display, and Veterans Memorial Park. Gerald loved the Christmas season and was able to garner support from the town council to light the entire town with festive lights and displays. After he retired from his mayorship, he loved to drive around town looking at the new sidewalks, the decorative light poles with the hanging baskets full of flowers, all the while listening to Motown. As mayor, he would often tell people it’s amazing what you can accomplish when you don’t worry who gets the credit for it.

He loved Chesapeake Beach more than anywhere else, knew its history better than anyone, and made it his mission as mayor to put Chesapeake Beach back on the map, just as Otto Mears did in 1900. He was a teacher of all things business and Chesapeake Beach to those around him, like his grandfather Wesley Stinnett had been to him.

Gerald gave so much to our community, where he set forth his vision for The Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort. Always a visionary, he was so proud of his life’s work. He felt immense gratitude to those who helped him fulfill his dreams. He loved coming to work every day and as he often said, “If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.” He truly loved what he did.

A funeral procession escorted by Calvert County Sheriff’s Department and the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department will depart St. Anthony’s Church in North Beach at 1:30pm on Saturday, August 7th. They will travel along Rt. 261, passing many of Gerald’s favorite locations in Chesapeake Beach, circle through the Rod ‘N’ Reel parking lot before heading west on Rt. 260. If you wish to pay tribute to Gerald as the procession makes its way through Chesapeake Beach, we invite you to stand along Rt. 261 somewhere between the St. Anthony’s Church and the Rod ‘N’ Reel. Chesapeake Beach Town Hall, restaurants Trader’s and 1936 will have flags to pass out for when the procession passes by.

There will be a private family service by invitation and a Celebration of Life to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to One Breath at a Time, Inc.’s Butterfly House, which provides room and board for families during the lung transplant process. www.onebreathatatime.net.

Read More

Visitation

Services

  • Private

No Services Available

Interment

  • Private

Contributions

One Breath at a Time, Inc.’s Butterfly House

PO Box 4619
Tampa, FL 33607

Map

Link:
https://onebreathatatime.net/donate-now/

Condolences

Sort Comments

    Jenny Maines
    4 Aug 2021
    10:14am

    Dear Mary and family, words cannot express my sadness at this time. Gerald was a great man and a wonderful leader to all he knew. I will miss his sense of humor and his smile. My prayers are with you all.

    save
    City
    Owings
    State
    Md.
    Reply
    Arthur Hammett
    4 Aug 2021
    10:24am

    May one of the nicest people I have ever know be peaceful in heaven. Gerald will be missed by all.

    save
    City
    PRINCE FREDERICK
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Pat and Steve Reynolds
    4 Aug 2021
    11:01am

    Gerald was a Super Hero to especially Chesapeake Beach and the County. With memories of him in school and Miss Wood’s class clown, he sure accomplished a lot 😊! He would’ve made his grandparents and parents very proud of what he has done mainly for the town. He will be missed by many people.

    save
    City
    Chesapeake Beach
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Paul J Murray
    4 Aug 2021
    11:13am

    My condolences to the entire Donovan Family. Gerald was much loved by all. Including his cousin, my late wife Priscilla Murphy. She treasured Gerald and all her Donovan cousins. He will be sorely missed.
    I have made a small donation to “One breath at a time” and encourage others to do as well.

    save
    City
    Halifax
    State
    MA.
    Reply
    Linda Howard
    4 Aug 2021
    1:04pm

    I worked with Gerald at the Rod N Reel many years ago. He was one of the most compassionate people that I have ever met. My condolences to the Donavan family.

    save
    City
    Deale
    State
    Maryland
    Reply
    Ed Fliss
    4 Aug 2021
    2:05pm

    Mary and the Donavan Family,
    So sorry for your loss. The Beach has lost one of its greatest ambassadors and advocates. He will be greatly missed but his life work and dedication is on display to be enjoyed and remembered by everyone who drives past the Veterans Memorial, the Rod N Reel or rides through town during the holidays admiring the Christmas lights. Rest In Peace Gerald.

    save
    City
    Humble
    State
    TX
    Reply
    Paul Robinson
    4 Aug 2021
    2:13pm

    It is a sad day when the “Beach” loses one of her sons.

    save
    City
    Mount Pleasant
    State
    SC
    Reply
    Darlene. Grierson
    4 Aug 2021
    3:32pm

    Donovan family, your family is in my prayers. May you find some comfort in family and friends during this difficult time. I know he was loved and admired by so many, and will be missed.

    save
    City
    Owings
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Terry
    4 Aug 2021
    4:19pm

    There are not too many people that have the charisma, dedication and good will as Gerald Donovan. The entire Murray Family offer their condolences and good wishes to Mary and the entire Donovan Family. Denny met Gerald back in the 70’s and forged a relationship that the remained strong until Denny’s passing in 2012…..Denny’s children Meg, Claire and John had their own close relationship with Gerald , as well as my children Pat, Beth and Mike …our brother Tim and my wife Dawn have many fond memories of Gerald as well. Murray weddings, birthdays, Cancer Gala’s, Bay Mills Christmas Parties and celebrations were always given high priority by Mary, Gerald and their wonderful staff. We Thank You Mary….Also remembering fondly of Gerald, is the Ruppert Family of Fairhaven, a Murray Family extension. Many great memories of Gerald live in the Murray’s hearts….he will not be forgotten……..God Bless You and Your Family, Gerald !!

    Terry & Dawn Murray

    save
    City
    Milford
    State
    Delaware
    Reply
    joy morgal
    4 Aug 2021
    4:46pm

    My heart aches for all of Gerald’s loved ones .I can’t imagine a world without him in it. He was a Champion for everyone from the Beaches and for fairness, beauty and goodness .His smile is etched in my memory forever. He really was one of a kind. He has left a legacy for all generations to come. RIP my dear friend.

    save
    City
    north beach
    State
    Maryland
    Reply
    Dottie Smith Katz
    4 Aug 2021
    5:24pm

    To Gerald’s family, friends, classmates,
    God needed another wonderful angel in Heaven to look after all he left behind.
    Gerald was a nice & kind person. Always remembered your name and wanting to know about you.
    I had the pleasure of being one of his classmates. Oh the times the class of 66′ had & Calvert high school was never the
    same. We all would gather for a class reunion in Oct. Gerald would make sure he gave all the girls a hug. I will miss that
    hug my friend. But we will never forget Gerald. May his family have wonderful memories and they last your life time.
    God has a special angel watching over you.

    save
    City
    Prince Frederick
    State
    Md.
    Reply
    Paula Guffey
    4 Aug 2021
    11:30pm

    Gerald was a one of a kind. He loved his Chesapeake Beach and worked so hard to make it grand. He was so good to me. I will miss him and carry many fond memories of the times when we spent working together.

    My thoughts and prayers are with Mary and the family during this very difficult time.

    save
    City
    Huntingtown
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Venus Smallwood
    5 Aug 2021
    7:24am

    RIP Gerald
    Condolences to family & friends

    save
    City
    Christiansburg
    State
    VA
    Reply
    Dominick Caparratto
    5 Aug 2021
    11:12am

    Wes, My heart breaks for you my friend. I remember us playing basketball in your driveway as kids and always admiring whichever beautiful car your father had at the time. I know he’s taught you well and you’ll continue the proud Donovan tradition. God Bless your entire family

    save
    City
    Chesapeake Beach
    State
    Md
    Reply
    Terri Mandley
    5 Aug 2021
    2:37pm

    My deepest condolences to Geralds family and friends. Years ago I worked for Gerald. Years later whenever I ran into him he always remembered my name. RIP😢💕

    save
    City
    North Beach
    State
    Md
    Reply
    Mary Healey
    5 Aug 2021
    4:29pm

    Gerald will be missed by so many. He was the best! I have so many great stories I will cherish. Rest in peace my friend. ❤ I will keep the family in my thoughts and prayers in these upcoming days.

    save
    City
    North Beach
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Robert Schlager
    5 Aug 2021
    6:05pm

    Gerald was a great man and one of the best people I have cared for. Even though I cannot be there in person to celebrate Gerald’s life, I will be there through my thoughts and prayers. I will always remember him. Chesapeake Beach will never forget him.

    save
    City
    Newport
    State
    Maine
    Reply
    Patty & Konrad Zych
    5 Aug 2021
    8:39pm

    My family and I will truly miss our conversations with Gerald. My husband, brothers, and many of my friends worked for Gerald at the Rod-n-Reel. So many fond memories. As we grew up to be adults and have our own families we often went back just to see Gerald. Rest In Peace Gerald. We will miss your smiling face. Sending peace and prayers to Mary, Wesley, Ryan, Freddie, Joanie, and all the other family members.

    save
    City
    Chesapeake Beach
    State
    Maryland
    Reply
    Cornelius Bogert
    15 Aug 2021
    3:49pm

    Sadly, I just today learned of the passing of Gerald Donovan My condolences to the entire Donovan family as well as to all his colleagues at the resort
    I had the good fortune of doing business with Mr Donovan over the past several years and found him to be the most gracious, classy, warm individual that you can ever know Corky Bogert

    save
    City
    Port Deposit
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Darlene Mosley
    16 Aug 2021
    6:18pm

    The Rod-N-Reel was my first job when I moved to Calvert Co., and Gerald made a point every day to visit and talk with each person there and know something about them. We can’t thank you enough for the changes, pleasures, and fun that you have endorsed in the beach for everyone to enjoy. You will always be an “icon” and my family thanks you for the wonderful moments, the memories and the thousands of people you have helped. Condolences to the entire Donovan family and his extended array of friends.

    save
    City
    Lothian
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Donna L Grover
    17 Aug 2021
    6:49am

    Dear Mary and family,
    I was so sorry to hear of Gerald’s passing. He was truly a treasure to all of Calvert County. His imprint on the landscape of Chesapeake Beach will live on forever. I will never forget his generosity and kindness, as he was always one of the biggest supporters of our Relay for Life team. I am sending prayers to your family during this difficult time.

    Donna Grover

    save
    City
    Chesapeake Beach
    State
    MD
    Reply

Leave A Condolence Cancel Condolence

(Required)
(Required)

Your condolence will appear following a review from the Rausch Funeral Home staff.

Sort Comments

    Jenny Maines
    4 Aug 2021
    10:14am

    Dear Mary and family, words cannot express my sadness at this time. Gerald was a great man and a wonderful leader to all he knew. I will miss his sense of humor and his smile. My prayers are with you all.

    save
    City
    Owings
    State
    Md.
    Reply
    Arthur Hammett
    4 Aug 2021
    10:24am

    May one of the nicest people I have ever know be peaceful in heaven. Gerald will be missed by all.

    save
    City
    PRINCE FREDERICK
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Pat and Steve Reynolds
    4 Aug 2021
    11:01am

    Gerald was a Super Hero to especially Chesapeake Beach and the County. With memories of him in school and Miss Wood’s class clown, he sure accomplished a lot 😊! He would’ve made his grandparents and parents very proud of what he has done mainly for the town. He will be missed by many people.

    save
    City
    Chesapeake Beach
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Paul J Murray
    4 Aug 2021
    11:13am

    My condolences to the entire Donovan Family. Gerald was much loved by all. Including his cousin, my late wife Priscilla Murphy. She treasured Gerald and all her Donovan cousins. He will be sorely missed.
    I have made a small donation to “One breath at a time” and encourage others to do as well.

    save
    City
    Halifax
    State
    MA.
    Reply
    Linda Howard
    4 Aug 2021
    1:04pm

    I worked with Gerald at the Rod N Reel many years ago. He was one of the most compassionate people that I have ever met. My condolences to the Donavan family.

    save
    City
    Deale
    State
    Maryland
    Reply
    Ed Fliss
    4 Aug 2021
    2:05pm

    Mary and the Donavan Family,
    So sorry for your loss. The Beach has lost one of its greatest ambassadors and advocates. He will be greatly missed but his life work and dedication is on display to be enjoyed and remembered by everyone who drives past the Veterans Memorial, the Rod N Reel or rides through town during the holidays admiring the Christmas lights. Rest In Peace Gerald.

    save
    City
    Humble
    State
    TX
    Reply
    Paul Robinson
    4 Aug 2021
    2:13pm

    It is a sad day when the “Beach” loses one of her sons.

    save
    City
    Mount Pleasant
    State
    SC
    Reply
    Darlene. Grierson
    4 Aug 2021
    3:32pm

    Donovan family, your family is in my prayers. May you find some comfort in family and friends during this difficult time. I know he was loved and admired by so many, and will be missed.

    save
    City
    Owings
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Terry
    4 Aug 2021
    4:19pm

    There are not too many people that have the charisma, dedication and good will as Gerald Donovan. The entire Murray Family offer their condolences and good wishes to Mary and the entire Donovan Family. Denny met Gerald back in the 70’s and forged a relationship that the remained strong until Denny’s passing in 2012…..Denny’s children Meg, Claire and John had their own close relationship with Gerald , as well as my children Pat, Beth and Mike …our brother Tim and my wife Dawn have many fond memories of Gerald as well. Murray weddings, birthdays, Cancer Gala’s, Bay Mills Christmas Parties and celebrations were always given high priority by Mary, Gerald and their wonderful staff. We Thank You Mary….Also remembering fondly of Gerald, is the Ruppert Family of Fairhaven, a Murray Family extension. Many great memories of Gerald live in the Murray’s hearts….he will not be forgotten……..God Bless You and Your Family, Gerald !!

    Terry & Dawn Murray

    save
    City
    Milford
    State
    Delaware
    Reply
    joy morgal
    4 Aug 2021
    4:46pm

    My heart aches for all of Gerald’s loved ones .I can’t imagine a world without him in it. He was a Champion for everyone from the Beaches and for fairness, beauty and goodness .His smile is etched in my memory forever. He really was one of a kind. He has left a legacy for all generations to come. RIP my dear friend.

    save
    City
    north beach
    State
    Maryland
    Reply
    Dottie Smith Katz
    4 Aug 2021
    5:24pm

    To Gerald’s family, friends, classmates,
    God needed another wonderful angel in Heaven to look after all he left behind.
    Gerald was a nice & kind person. Always remembered your name and wanting to know about you.
    I had the pleasure of being one of his classmates. Oh the times the class of 66′ had & Calvert high school was never the
    same. We all would gather for a class reunion in Oct. Gerald would make sure he gave all the girls a hug. I will miss that
    hug my friend. But we will never forget Gerald. May his family have wonderful memories and they last your life time.
    God has a special angel watching over you.

    save
    City
    Prince Frederick
    State
    Md.
    Reply
    Paula Guffey
    4 Aug 2021
    11:30pm

    Gerald was a one of a kind. He loved his Chesapeake Beach and worked so hard to make it grand. He was so good to me. I will miss him and carry many fond memories of the times when we spent working together.

    My thoughts and prayers are with Mary and the family during this very difficult time.

    save
    City
    Huntingtown
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Venus Smallwood
    5 Aug 2021
    7:24am

    RIP Gerald
    Condolences to family & friends

    save
    City
    Christiansburg
    State
    VA
    Reply
    Dominick Caparratto
    5 Aug 2021
    11:12am

    Wes, My heart breaks for you my friend. I remember us playing basketball in your driveway as kids and always admiring whichever beautiful car your father had at the time. I know he’s taught you well and you’ll continue the proud Donovan tradition. God Bless your entire family

    save
    City
    Chesapeake Beach
    State
    Md
    Reply
    Terri Mandley
    5 Aug 2021
    2:37pm

    My deepest condolences to Geralds family and friends. Years ago I worked for Gerald. Years later whenever I ran into him he always remembered my name. RIP😢💕

    save
    City
    North Beach
    State
    Md
    Reply
    Mary Healey
    5 Aug 2021
    4:29pm

    Gerald will be missed by so many. He was the best! I have so many great stories I will cherish. Rest in peace my friend. ❤ I will keep the family in my thoughts and prayers in these upcoming days.

    save
    City
    North Beach
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Robert Schlager
    5 Aug 2021
    6:05pm

    Gerald was a great man and one of the best people I have cared for. Even though I cannot be there in person to celebrate Gerald’s life, I will be there through my thoughts and prayers. I will always remember him. Chesapeake Beach will never forget him.

    save
    City
    Newport
    State
    Maine
    Reply
    Patty & Konrad Zych
    5 Aug 2021
    8:39pm

    My family and I will truly miss our conversations with Gerald. My husband, brothers, and many of my friends worked for Gerald at the Rod-n-Reel. So many fond memories. As we grew up to be adults and have our own families we often went back just to see Gerald. Rest In Peace Gerald. We will miss your smiling face. Sending peace and prayers to Mary, Wesley, Ryan, Freddie, Joanie, and all the other family members.

    save
    City
    Chesapeake Beach
    State
    Maryland
    Reply
    Cornelius Bogert
    15 Aug 2021
    3:49pm

    Sadly, I just today learned of the passing of Gerald Donovan My condolences to the entire Donovan family as well as to all his colleagues at the resort
    I had the good fortune of doing business with Mr Donovan over the past several years and found him to be the most gracious, classy, warm individual that you can ever know Corky Bogert

    save
    City
    Port Deposit
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Darlene Mosley
    16 Aug 2021
    6:18pm

    The Rod-N-Reel was my first job when I moved to Calvert Co., and Gerald made a point every day to visit and talk with each person there and know something about them. We can’t thank you enough for the changes, pleasures, and fun that you have endorsed in the beach for everyone to enjoy. You will always be an “icon” and my family thanks you for the wonderful moments, the memories and the thousands of people you have helped. Condolences to the entire Donovan family and his extended array of friends.

    save
    City
    Lothian
    State
    MD
    Reply
    Donna L Grover
    17 Aug 2021
    6:49am

    Dear Mary and family,
    I was so sorry to hear of Gerald’s passing. He was truly a treasure to all of Calvert County. His imprint on the landscape of Chesapeake Beach will live on forever. I will never forget his generosity and kindness, as he was always one of the biggest supporters of our Relay for Life team. I am sending prayers to your family during this difficult time.

    Donna Grover

    save
    City
    Chesapeake Beach
    State
    MD
    Reply

Leave A Condolence Cancel Condolence

(Required)
(Required)

Your condolence will appear following a review from the Rausch Funeral Home staff.
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