Donovan Patrick Deyo "Red"

Donovan Patrick Deyo was born May 3, 1958 to loving parents Clare and Mildred Deyo. Donovan will be remembered by his siblings David (Kathy), Diane (Bob Grau), and Dennis Deyo, and his many nieces, nephews, and in-laws for his sense of humor and willingness to lend a hand at a moment's notice. 

On June 18, 1982 on a sunny afternoon day, Donovan married his childhood friend, Monica (Soraruf). Together they raised two lovely daughters Patricia and Pamela (Lindow), both nurses. They gave them the most beautiful gift of all, their grandchildren: Amara Deyo-Flagg, Maverick Flagg and Ryan Lindow, whom each deeply cherished their grandpa.

Donovan started working hard at a young age and was known around his Ypsilanti neighborhood as the trusted paperboy, delivering for the Ypsilanti Free Press. He then went on to work at the Washtenaw Country Club where he recruited many of his friends in the neighborhood to follow in his employment there.

At 18, Donovan began his 31-year career at Ford Motor company. The friends he made while working there remained close with him long after his retirement at the age of 50. 

Following his retirement, Donovan was rarely sitting still. He was a handyman to anyone that asked for his help, was constantly covered in paint, and will certainly be remembered with a tool in hand. The work suited him well, he enjoyed helping others and found a sense of peace in working with his hands. Whether it be painting, working on a car, or tinkering with a broken appliance, he stayed busy. When he was not working on a project, he could be found out on the golf course, playing pickleball, reading, going to his grandkids' sporting events, and enjoyed just being at home with family.

Donovan recently celebrated 16 years of sobriety, an accomplishment he was very proud of. He was an active participating member of AA. He cultivated many friendships at The Little House in Ypsilanti. The circle of support that he created there and served in sobriety alongside, were pivotal in his success in the program. With their support, Donovan was able to help many others in the AA community as a mentor and friend. 

Early last year, Donovan received a diagnosis of ALS (also known as Lou Gerig’s Disease). This disease ultimately took his life. The news of the illness was shocking but the support from his family, and his many close friendships lifted him in ways that he had only dreamed of.

As a testament of the way he lived his life; as a helper, a doer, and friend, he left this world surrounded by a myriad of support and love.

Visitation for Donovan will take place on Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Allen Park Chapel of the Martenson Family of Funeral Homes located at 10915 Allen Road, 48101. The funeral service will be held that same afternoon at 4:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers his family has asked donations be made in his name to, the National ALS Association, Team Gleason, ALS of Michigan. I am ALS of Michigan Angela Hospice.

Please visit Donovan's online guestbook and tribute wall to share memories and leave condolences for his family.