Obituary of Arlene B Donovan

Arlene Peterson Donovan, age 94 passed away peacefully on January 24, 2024 at Eddy Village Green, Cohoes with her daughter Gail at her side. Arlene was born on April 2, 1929 in Maspeth, Long Island, the daughter of the Late Ernest and Lilly Peterson. Arlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 63 years Peter "Skippy" Donovan, her cherished daughter Lyn McDermott and her dear son-in-law Tom Donovan. Arlene will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Gail Donovan, her grandchildren Ryan (Gina) McDermott, Kelly (Josh) Kisselbrack, Kevin (Brittany) Donovan and Colleen (Ben) Coulter; her great-grandchildren Mason and Raegan Donovan, Donovan Kisselbrack, Declan and Liliana McDermott, Chris and Jack Coulter; her son-in-law Taylor McDermott. Arlene was treasured by her family and friends and will be deeply missed. We will always remember our weekly Sunday dinners, vacations in Cape Cod, holiday gatherings, attending all sporting events of her grandchildren, phone calls and unending love for all of us. Arlene was famous for making Swedish pancakes for her children and grandchildren at all times of the day. Now, Swedish pancakes are a big hit with her great-grandchildren! Arlene and Peter loved house projects. If Arlene mentioned to her Skippy that she would like to knock down a wall or add on a room to their house, Skippy would be getting his tools out before you could stop him! Arlene and Peter lived in six different homes while they were married. Her daughters would joke that they would buy a new house on their lunch hour! Arlene worked for the New York Telephone Company prior to having her children and after they went to college. Her group of coworkers met regularly for lunch at the Turf Inn for many years after retiring. Arlene's family is comforted to know she is at peace and reunited with her loved ones. Give our love to Dad, Lyn and Tom – we know they have greeted you with open arms and have been waiting for your arrival. Arlene's family would especially like to thank the staff at Eddy Village Green (House 16) in Cohoes, NY, for the compassionate care they provided to her over the past 6 years. Arlene was loved by the staff and the other elders. Also, thank you to Community Hospice of Albany County for their support given to Arlene. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Arlene's name to Eddy Village Green 421 W. Columbia St. Cohoes, NY 12047. Burial will be private and take place at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to share on-line condolences and memories at CatricalaFuneralHome.com