Donovan E. Gordon, of Highland Park, IL passed away peacefully on October 17, 2022, at the age of 88. He was born in Beloit, WI on August 15, 1934. He is survived by his loving wife Sandra, and sons Kendrick (Laura) and Kyle (Twyla). He was the cherished grandfather of Quincy, Tyler and Madison.

Donovan was preceded in death by his parents Bennie & Etta Mae, step-mother Rachel, brother Kenneth and sister Winifred. He was the wise, vigilant, older brother to all of his siblings; including Gerald Gordon, Janice Smith, Judith Samuel, Linda Allen, Sheila Gordon and Patricia Griffin.

Donovan grew up on a farm, where he learned the values of dependability and hard work at an early age. He developed an interest in caring for animals, and would often assist the veterinarian who treated animals on the farm. He also belonged to the Turtle Creek 4-H Club, and won several awards for showing his livestock at county fairs.

Donovan excelled academically, and developed a passion for science. He graduated from Beloit Memorial High School. He completed his pre-med/undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Iowa State University. He returned to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and earned a Ph.D. in Veterinary Pathology.

In the early 1960’s, Donovan honorably served his country in the military. He was a captain in the U.S. Army Veterinary Medical Corps. His unit was responsible for food safety and animal medicine. At one point, he was stationed in Seoul, South Korea, where he managed veterinary care for the canine units.

Donovan took great pride in his work as a veterinary pathologist, operating in the pharmaceutical industry. In his leisure time, he enjoyed visiting with friends & family, swimming, playing tennis, fishing, gardening and listening to music.

Donovan was a source of inspiration and wise counsel to all who knew him.

A celebration of life/memorial service will be held on November 5, 2022 at 11:00 AM, at First United Methodist Church, 516 Church Street, Evanston, IL 60201.

To view the service virtually, on or after November 5, 2022 at 11:00 AM, click this link.

Celebration for the Life of Dr. Donovan Gordon - YouTube

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor or in memory of Donovan Gordon to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org).