George F. Donahue, age 78, passed away Thursday, November 26, 2009 at his home in Kewaskum.
He was born on November 26, 1931 in Brunswick, ME to the late Herbert and Mattie (nee Bowers) Donahue. George graduated from Brunswick High School. Little did he know that during his High School years, his life would forever be influenced by his history and geography teacher. His geography teacher would always say that just over that hill you will find a whole new life, and then over the next hill will be another whole new life ...
After graduation George decided to see what was over that next hill and joined the U.S. Air Force where he served his country for 28 years and retired as a Chief Master Sergeant (E-9) in 1978. Fourteen of these years was spent overseas. While in Vietnam he was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor Device and 2 Oak Leaf Clusters. Additional decorations included the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, the Master Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge and other awards and service ribbons.
After his military career he attended Weber State College in Ogden, UT graduating with honors in 1981. He then moved to Edmonds, WA where he worked for the King County Public Safety as a civilian in the King County Police Gang Unit and as a member of the King County Emergency Management Unit. He attended numerous FEMA courses and qualified as an Emergency Manager.
During his time in King County he was also a volunteer with the King County 4 X 4 Search and Rescue organization. This became George's most rewarding part of life. He received many plaques and letters in recognition of his volunteer work for the 12 years that he contributed more than 10,000 miles of driving for numerous search and rescue missions in the state of Washington.
George was also a member of the American Legion for over 21 years serving as the Post Adjutant and Hall Rental Manager for his post in Montlake Terrace, WA. He was also a member of the Air Force Master Blaster Explosive Ordnance Disposal Organization.
Always looking for what was over the next hill, George enjoyed life by camping all throughout the United States. He was proud of the fact he had camped from Maine to California and from Key West, FL to Brooks Range in Northern Alaska. His children, and in later years, his grandchildren accompanied George and his wife during many of the camping trips.
George is survived by his wife, Millie (Lehn) Donahue, whom he married on October 5, 1974; two daughters, Susan (Roger) Bustamante of Aurora, CO and Barbara Neel of Layton, UT; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.
George was preceded in death by his parents; and his only brother, Gene Donahue.
Interment with full military honors will be in Arlington National Cemetery.