James P. Donahue

James P. Donahue (Jim), a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle, friend, educator, counselor, and community leader, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family at the age of 89 on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

Jim's greatest pride and joy was his family. He was deeply devoted to his wife of 67 years, Sharon F. Beccue, whom he met as a young man in Janesville, MN. They married on August 29, 1959, and together worked hard to raise their family and build a lasting legacy. Jim taught those he loved the value of a strong work ethic, a lifelong love of travel, and, above all, the foundational importance of family.

Jim is survived by Sharon; his sibling, John Dennis; sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Baker and Marleen Donahue; four children-Brian (Suzie), Kevin (Beverly), Ellen (Roy) Anderson, and Karen (Joe) Gebhart; twelve grandchildren; fourteen great‑grandchildren; Nieces and Nephews and many friends, including his dear friend, Steve Rud. He also leaves behind generations of former students whose lives were shaped by his guidance and encouragement.

Born September 24, 1937, in Mankato, MN, to Robert E. Donahue and Bernice H. Gerike, Jim grew up in Janesville, where he graduated from high school in 1955. He dedicated more than three decades, from 1959 to 1992, to helping local youth find guidance, opportunity, and a path to success.

Jim began his career teaching Math and Science, then became a driving force behind the Work Experience and Career Education Program, helping students develop practical skills, discover their potential, and gain real-world confidence. He later served as both a Vocational Counselor and High School Counselor, becoming a steady and encouraging presence for thousands of teenagers navigating adolescence and planning their futures.

His commitment to youth continued later in life when he and his friend Charlie Rogers co-founded FRACO (Fund Raising Activities for Community Organizations), helping youth organizations raise vital funds so all children could participate, play, and thrive.

Outside of work, Jim was a true outdoorsman. He loved his hobby farm, tending livestock and duck hunting, his hunting property in Blackduck, MN, and their lake home on Pickerel Lake. Hunting, fishing, and simply "putzing" around brought him great joy. He was also an active Kiwanis Club member, devoted to improving the lives of children and his community.

Jim leaves behind a legacy carried in the countless lives he touched. His greatest lessons were lived rather than taught: work hard, love your family, enjoy the journey, help others, and always make time for the people who matter most. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and remembered in the hearts of his family, friends, students, and community.

The family would like to thank Home Instead and Vivie for their home health care and hospice services. Their services allowed Jim to be at home with Sharon during his last few weeks. Right where he wanted to be.

A celebration of Jim's life and legacy will be held at Olson Funeral and Cremation on Wednesday, November 25, 2026, with visitation from 9:00-11:00 a.m. and the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the 544 Foundation and the local Kiwanis Club chapter in Jim's honor.

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com