Michael E. Donelan
ORANGE, MA – Michael Eugene Donelan, 72, of Stone Valley Road, passed
away at his home on Monday, September 22, 2025, surrounded by his
family, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in England on June 28, 1953 (during his father’s military
deployment with the U.S. Air Force), Michael was the son of James F.
and P. Madeline (Hamilton) Donelan and resided in Orange his entire
life.
Michael worked for the family grocery and liquor business for many
years, then later took on employment throughout his years at the
Massachusetts State Highway Department, Erving Paper Mill, McKenney’s
Service Station, and Franklin County Auto Parts, before retiring in
2017.
He was a devout member of Saint Mary’s Church in Orange, participating
for many years in the choir as both vocalist and guitarist, and was a
member of the Knights of Columbus of which he served a one-year term
as Grand Knight.
Michael’s passion for music was never ending. His talents with guitar
and voice were exemplified with area bands over the years, and he also
applied his skills as a sound technician for several reputable R&R
bands around the New England area.
He will always be remembered as a loving son, brother, uncle, and
friend. His personality and humor, often accompanied by one of his
many guitars, were a gift at family events and holiday gatherings.
Michael leaves behind his siblings, Brian (Barbara) of East Sandwich,
Ann Marie Holmgren of Punta Gorda FL, Maureen Kolodziej (Jim) of
Orange, Theresa Bergquist (Jack) of Orange, Christopher (Maureen) of
Greenfield, Kevin (Lisa) of Athol, and many loving nieces and nephews.
Michael is predeceased by his father, James Donelan 2000, mother,
Madeline (Hamilton) Donelan 2024, brother, Timothy Donelan 1975,
sister, Rosemary (Donelan) Saylor 2022.
There are no calling hours.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, October 4th, at
11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, 19 Congress Street,
Orange, with Fr. Mark Glover officiating.
A private burial will take place at Gethsemane Cemetery, Athol MA.
Donations in Michael’s memory may be made to: St. Mary’s Knights of
Columbus Council 16798, 19 Congress St., Orange, MA 01364, or to:
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or via
dana-farber.org/gift.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the
family.
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