Comments for Make a hole. The Auld Soldier is inbound.

Make a hole. The Auld Soldier is inbound.

2009-09-10T04:55:34Z

The Auld Soldier, Colonel Timothy Donovan, FA, Silver Star, DFC, Purple Heart w/6OLC, Combat Infantry Badge, veteran of two wars, one hell of a Rotarian and my father, signaled End of Mission, Close Station, March Order, and struck his colors at 1215 this afternoon.

Memorial service is Monday at 2:30 PM in Columbia, interment will be at Leavenworth National Cemetery at a date to be determined.

His passage was peaceful, thanks be to God, and he was surrounded by his family.

We'll dance later. I'm not in the mood.

Comment from SteveH on 2009-09-13

2009-09-13T23:11:35Z

Our thoughts and prayers go out for you and your family.

Comment from Bou on 2009-09-12

2009-09-13T01:14:35Z

My heartfelt condolences to you, Beth, and your family, John. Take care and know y'all are in my thoughts and prayers.

Comment from zonker on 2009-09-11

2009-09-12T04:19:19Z

My thoughts and prayers are with your family, John.

Comment from the_bleachman on 2009-09-11

2009-09-11T20:49:42Z

Been away doing things and just saw this.

You have my deepest condolences.

Comment from MCart on 2009-09-11

2009-09-11T17:32:51Z

I wonder if yours and mine might share a round.

No goodbyes, just good memories.

Comment from Blake Kirk on 2009-09-11

2009-09-11T15:37:35Z

John,

I lost my own father several yers ago. You and yours have my deepest sympathy.

Comment from Boquisucio on 2009-09-11

2009-09-11T14:36:52Z

Boss, Other thatn the words that I sent you earlier in my E-Mail, I do not know what else to add. Except that you have made your father very proud by the kind of man that you have grown into. My deepest condolences.

Boq

Comment from Eric on 2009-09-11

2009-09-11T14:19:44Z

John, May the Lord give you Peace in this time of your family's greatest need.

Your Father has been ordered By THUNDER- 6 to report for motor stables. Gate Guard (St. Peter) has been informed of Name to be added to access roster.

Comment from Llano Chaplains on 2009-09-11

2009-09-11T12:58:24Z

John, you have our deepest sympathy and our prayers. May God comfort you and your family in this awful time. May your father's memory be blessed, even as you learn to live with missing him.

Comment from Desert Sailor on 2009-09-11

2009-09-11T12:06:27Z

John,
I know your pain.
Another hero stands and passes on.
He'll always be in your heart and soul.
And thankfully through your efforts, he'll live on in ours as well.
Rest easy sir!!

Comment from inkgrrl on 2009-09-11

2009-09-11T05:35:28Z

My deepest condolences to you and your family. May his memory always make you smile, and may he rest in peace.

Comment from MikeLM on 2009-09-10

2009-09-11T04:20:42Z

Solace to you John, and to your family. I'm especially moved by your description of him as "a hell of a Rotarian". What a great way to cap off a distinguished military career.

A lifetime of service...

Comment from htom on 2009-09-10

2009-09-11T03:25:39Z

My most sincere condolences to you, John, Beth, and your families. May the joys of your memories lighten the load of grief you bear. Rest in Peace, Colonel Donovan, most very, very well done.

Comment from MAJ Arkay on 2009-09-10

2009-09-11T01:51:37Z

Condolences, John, to you and yours. Hoisting a glass to Colonel Donovan, may he rest in peace.

Comment from Ymarsakar on 2009-09-10

2009-09-11T00:10:55Z

God speed to the righteous and a prayer for the protection of divine providence in the time ahead.

Comment from RetRsvMike on 2009-09-10

2009-09-11T00:04:30Z

may it be said "well done, be thou at peace".

Comment from Joel Inman on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T22:13:25Z

The United States is a free nation because men like Colonel Donovan stood at the ready to, as the quote goes, "... visit great violence on those who would do us harm".

Farewell and Godspeed, Colonel.

Comment from H H on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T21:48:44Z

John and Beth,
Heartfelt condolences from someone who has lost both parents.

SSgt Barry Sadler song, "An Empty Glass".
An empty glass beside me,
He will drink with me no more.

I shall have a cold RC cola in memory of a good soldier.
HH

Comment from H H on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T21:46:34Z

John and Beth,
Heartfelt condolences from someone who has lost both parents.
SSgt Barry Sadler song, "An Empty Glass".
An empty glass beside me,
He will drink with me no more.
I shall have a cold RC cola in memory of a good soldier.
HH

Comment from DoesNotMatter on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T21:20:25Z

My condolences. I should say more but my own words fail me and just copying someone else words doesn't feel right to me.

Comment from Padraig on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T20:59:01Z

John,

Sorry to read about your loss. May God bless your father, your mother, you and your entire family.

Comment from Victor on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T20:57:36Z

I am so sorry fo your loss. As an American by choice, I thank the Lord that He gave this great country men such as your dad. He served his country well, and for that I thank him.
May the Sweet Lord show His countenance upon the Auld Soldier and give him peace.

Comment from Roachman on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T20:52:06Z

John,

My most heartfelt condolences, and best thoughts for you and your family.

Another hero in read into the rolls of Vallhala.

Fair winds and following seas, Colonel Donovan. With respect from an old sailor.

Comment from XBradTC on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T20:50:28Z

John,
My condolences to you, Beth, and the rest of the Donovan clan. I pray that you will find solace and comfort with the Lord.

As you say, now is not to time to dance. But soon, my friend, soon.

Comment from rikkochet on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T20:43:46Z

One day, we too will travel round the final bend in life's long and winding road.

And there, with outstretched hands and welcoming smiles, will be our friends.

And we will be together once more.

John and Beth, I offer my deepest sympathy.

Comment from Toluca Nole on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T20:12:12Z

My condolences, John.

Comment from Daniel on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T19:23:10Z

My deepest condolences. All the best for you and your family.

Comment from Martin Morehouse on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T19:19:32Z

My condolences to you, and my hope that the pain will be short-lived, while the memory will be forever.

"Grief is not the end of all. I seem to hear the funeral march become a paean. I see beyond the forest the moving banners of a hidden column. Our dead brothers still live for us, and bid us think of life, not death - of life to which in their youth they lent the passion and joy of the spring. As I listen, the great chorus of life and joy begins again, and amid the awful orchestra of seen and unseen powers and destinies of good and evil our trumpets sound once more a note of daring, hope and will."

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Memorial Day address of 1884

Comment from Justthisguy on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T18:47:39Z

Sir: My most earnest and heart-felt condolences to you on this occasion of horrible un-mendable loss. I am not in a position to do much, but if there is anything I can do for you and yours, please let me know.

Will spill libation at earliest opportunity.

Comment from Prestonious on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T18:37:54Z

John,

Even the great strength that your mother and father gave you is tested in this time. May all those standing at your shoulder help a little in the weakness in your knees. I write this to your father, as I know that he can hear the echos up in the clouds.

Colonel T. Donovan,

Thank you Sir for so many things you have provided us with your leadership, toil and contributions lo these many years. Being a humble man you might recognize the vast breadth of your contributions to community, state, country and also to family, but would never remark upon them. The thought would never cross your mind. We on the other hand, were bathed in the bounty of your contributions and we are left cold as your shadow passes on to greater glory. The hole we feel in our hearts is just a small measure of how much we will miss you, and if we were to sum that emptiness it would be large indeed as you have touched, encouraged and lifted so many over the years. You will be greatly missed.

Preston Sights

Comment from Hunter on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T18:10:19Z

Rest in peace soldier. Thank you for your service. Peace to your family and comrades. Amen.

Comment from MissBirdlegs in AL on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T17:26:33Z

Ah, John. I'm so very sorry to hear this. Nothing we say will really help, but look around and know that so many care and are standing by should y'all need us. My sincere sympathy. Katy

Comment from R Jewell on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T17:20:46Z

Gone to The Green

No doubt, to be met by some of that rowdy bunch of Conscripts that he spoke so highly of from time to time.

Comment from Casey on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T17:17:24Z

Oh, my Lord. I don't doubt you're not in the mood for dancing John. My condolences.

I also don't doubt he's renewing many old friendships right now.

Comment from bthun on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T17:00:49Z

Please accept my condolences for the loss of your father.

Best regards,

Comment from Sean Maloney on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T16:46:23Z

John:

My condolences to you, Beth, and your family during this time.

I'll hoist a pint.

Sincerely,

-Sean M. Maloney, PhD
Historian

Comment from 1IDVET on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T16:32:09Z

May he rest in peace.

Sorry for your loss.

Comment from Nicki on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T16:29:07Z

I'm so very sorry to hear about your dad. Please accept my deepest and most heartfelt condolences. You and your loved ones will be in our thoughts and prayers!

Comment from Jerry on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T16:17:53Z

God Bless him, may he rest in peace

Comment from The Thomas on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T16:17:44Z

Damn, and when I read the title I just thought he was moving from Columbia to live closer to you.

Well, he will be closer to you, just not the way I would have hoped.

I am sorry for your loss. At least your mother has her bridge partner back.

Comment from LL on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T16:14:03Z

I'm really sorry for your loss.

Comment from OldTrooper on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T16:06:27Z

My deepest condolences to you and your family.

A man amongst men; the warrior enters Valhalla.

Comment from V29 on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T16:06:16Z

You have my deepest condolences on your loss, John. I pray the Lord will bless and keep the *Auld Sojer* in the warm embrace of life eternal. Such men as he, will be sorely missed!
Jim Ewart.
"Do not stand by my grave and weep ...I am not there;I do not sleep.When you awaken in the morning's hush, I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds circling in flight. Do not stand by my grave and cry ...I am not there. I did not die." -- Royster

Comment from mitzibel on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T15:44:20Z

Oh, John, I'm sorry. I'm sending you big bosomy hugs.

Comment from LittleRed1 on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T15:30:37Z

You and your family are in my prayers. May G-d be with you in your sorrows and in your joys.

Comment from Dave on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T15:27:35Z

My prayers to you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Comment from Slick rick on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T15:25:44Z

A hero passes. RIP.

Rick

Comment from Terrymum on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T15:25:25Z

So sorry John. No way to say it well enough. Anything you are needing, just ask!

Comment from pam on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T15:24:44Z

My deepest condolences to you and your family, John. Our prayers are with you all.

Comment from MaryAnn on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T15:20:25Z

I'm so very, very sorry to hear this, John. It would be difficult to find someone who expressed such deep love and respect for his father the way you always have. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Farewell and rest in peace, Auld Soldier.

Comment from Tim on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T15:18:17Z

I'm so sorry, John. Your Dad's passing has left us poorer but Heaven a better place.

Comment from exhelodrvr on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T15:15:58Z

Keeping your family in our prayers.

2 Timothy 4:7-8
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."

Comment from Mrs G on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T15:00:05Z

Our deepest condolences John, I hope that time and memories will help lessen the burden of your sorrow, and that you may draw some measure of comfort knowing that others care and share in your loss.

We'll dance in memorium for you.

Comment from Cpl. Mongo on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:59:14Z

I never met this man we mourn today.
I only know him second hand by reading the words of his son.
"By their fruits shall ye know them." You can tell a sculpter is great by looking at his work.
I know he was a great man only through extrapolation.
And that only makes it harder to say fairwell.
When he was young he was called and he stepped up.
What better thing can you say of a man.
Yesterday he was called again and again he stepped up.

I don't pray much these days, but today I will for you friend.

Be strong and know he will wait.

Comment from Saker on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:55:10Z

God bless you, and my respects to your father.

Comment from Uncle Jimbo on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:42:08Z

A well-lived life and a great example for you and others. Condolonces and a trip t the hall of heroes for your dad.

Cordially,

Uncle J

Comment from Terri on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:39:31Z

John you have my deepest sympathies. As many have said before, our country is greater that men such as your father have graced this earth with their presence. Thoughts and prayers go out to you.

Comment from Sherri on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:36:30Z

John,

I'm so terribly sorry for your loss. Condolences to you and your family.

Comment from David M on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:32:33Z

John,

My deepest condolences to you on the loss of your father. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.

The Cavalrymen's Poem:

Halfway down the trail to Hell,
In a shady meadow green
Are the Souls of all dead troopers camped,
Near a good old-time canteen.
And this eternal resting place
Is known as Fiddlers' Green.

Marching past, straight through to Hell
The Infantry are seen.
Accompanied by the Engineers,
Artillery and Marines,
For none but the shades of Cavalrymen
Dismount at Fiddlers' Green.

Though some go curving down the trail
To seek a warmer scene.
No trooper ever gets to Hell
Ere he's emptied his canteen.
And so rides back to drink again
With friends at Fiddlers' Green.

And so when man and horse go down
Beneath a saber keen,
Or in a roaring charge of fierce melee
You stop a bullet clean,
And the hostiles come to get your scalp,
Just empty your canteen,
And put your pistol to your head
And go to Fiddlers' Green.

Comment from The Engineer on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:26:59Z

John, We here at the Engineer house will keep you and your family in our prayers. And my hat off to your beloved father. I thank you for his great service to this great republic.

God Bless You,
The Engineer

P.S. May his journey to Fiddlers Green be peaceful.

Comment from Andi on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:24:15Z

I'm so sorry, John. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Comment from Mike47 on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:16:52Z

I am so sorry for your loss.

Comment from BeachBumBill on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:09:52Z

John and Beth,

May the thoughts and words from a small corner of the blogosphere comfort you in these hours.

God Bless.

Warmest,
The Bolton Family
Longmont, CO

Comment from Cricket on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:09:02Z

I am so sorry. He was a good man and he raised a truly wonderful family. Peace be with you and yours.

Comment from Grim on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:06:54Z

My condolences, John. You will be in our thoughts.

Comment from Russ on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T14:06:11Z

Sir, my deepest condolences.
Psalms 103:17 But the lovingkindness of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children‘s children,

Comment from Chuck Simmins on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T13:59:06Z

God bless, John.

Comment from Oldloadr on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T13:51:02Z

Damn...

I know the Lord wil be with you and yours while you work through this...

Comment from JamesLee on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T13:48:42Z

I know I'm relatively new here, so to echo, thoughts and prayers to you and yours John.

And I'm local to you as well, so if there's anything needed, I'll do what I can.

Comment from Carrie on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T13:41:44Z

Oh John, I am so very sorry. I know you will miss him terribly.

Comment from KCSteve on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T13:26:04Z

Deepest condolences for your loss.

It's good to know that when the pain of this passing has faded, the joyous memories will remain.

Comment from fdcol63 on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T13:10:14Z

John, please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. May he rest in peace and re-unite with your mom on the other side, where they will continue to smile upon you and your family.

They both lived well, served well, and left the world a better place.

Comment from lvncenturion on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T13:03:11Z

There was a song that was sung at FOBII, Kontum when a RT failed to return from a mission. It was sung often. It may have been sung at other MACSOG locations, I don't know, but I was priviledged to join the gang at Kontum in several renditions. Its a song for soldier warriors. It goes:

I had a dog and his name was Blue,
Betcha five dollars he's a good dog too.

Here Blue, you good dog you.

Comment from John (not the armorer) on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T12:44:49Z

Thank God for the many extra years he enjoyed with a wonderful family after each of the many Purple Heart events nearly took him from us.

Condolences to all involved.

Comment from Grimmy on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T12:27:19Z

Rest in Peace, Soldier

Comment from Joshua of Basehor on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T12:25:51Z

Our thoughts are with you and yours as well as the Colonel.

Comment from mike on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T11:53:12Z

God go with you.

Comment from Cassandra on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T09:44:52Z

Thank you, LORD, for such good MEN and their SONS.

Amen.

Comment from Old Fat Sailor on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T09:30:08Z

Absent Friends

Comment from HomefrontSix on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T09:14:53Z

I am so, so sorry John.

Comment from BillT on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T05:41:16Z

There will be time enough to dance. For now, console your family and yourself with the memories of the good times, and know that you did him proud -- and know that he knew it.

FG RVN Contingent -- Form up for a proper welcome, and look sharp!

Comment from Randy K on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T05:28:48Z

God bless.

Comment from DL Sly on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T05:19:22Z

My heart hurts for your loss.

*lifts a toast to the honor of the Auld Soldier*

Comment from Cowboy Blob on 2009-09-10

2009-09-10T05:08:19Z

Strength to you and yours in this time of loss. I'm sure he was proud to have a son like you who'll always remember men like him.

Comment from JimC on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T04:18:34Z

Well, John, damn just damn. May he rest in peace knowing he has the grateful thanks of the Nation he so ably served. My condolences to you and your whole family. You were blessed to have him so long.

Comment from Miss Ladybug on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T03:58:43Z

My deepest and most sincere condolences to you and your family, John...

Comment from Flag Gazer on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T03:32:51Z

So sad for your loss - loosing parents is painful at any age. Prayers are lifted up and you are in our thoughts. God bless.

Comment from Argent on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T03:26:51Z

Oh what terrible news. My condolances to you and your family.

The good news is that such a man had lived.

Comment from AFSister on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T03:20:51Z

I've been thinking about you all day, John. I'm so very sorry. The love and respect between you and your Dad is so obvious. We should all be so lucky. He raised a fine family, and will truly be missed by the world.

Comment from Rivrdog on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T03:19:49Z

My condolences, sir. Your father was a fine man and an outstanding soldier by anyone's measure.

I went to Mizzou '61-'63, and took classes in Army ROTC there. Could he have been one of my Professors of Military Science?

Comment from AW1 Tim on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T02:41:59Z

Damn, John... My deepest condolences to you and yours. Please let me know if there is anything, ANYTHING that I might be able to do to assist you or yours in the coming days.

I'll light a candle on my end to help light his way along.

God Bless him, and all who served alongside him.

Comment from Cortillaen on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T02:14:51Z

I'd say "Bless you and your family," but I think the Colonel handled that well enough in advance. I'm afraid wholly inadequate condolences will have to suffice.

By all accounts, a good man, a good life, and a good legacy; and now having a good time where the trials and travails of this flawed world exist only in memory. Not being able to talk face to face is only a matter of time, and, by the time you catch up, he'll have some good stories to tell and people to introduce. Hope you don't mind if plenty of people here would rather you keep him waiting a while.

It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.
- Gen. George S. Patton

Mourning the loss of a hero is only human, and God only gave them potential. Thank them for making the most of it, and honor their memory by doing likewise.
- Another view

Comment from Grumpy on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T02:10:44Z

Thank you, LORD, for such good MEN and their SONS.

Comment from SangerM on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T02:04:45Z

God Speed and God bless.

Comment from Alan Briley, RN on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T02:01:52Z

John,

I am sorry he has left you and your family, but knowing you and your upbringing, I know the ramparts of Heaven are stronger now than ever before. My prayers are with you and your family, and tomorrow I will put rounds downrange in his honor, open a bottle of Glenlivet, and pray for his immortal soul. If I can be 1/10th the man your father was, I will count myself well off.

God bless you and keep you.

Alan Briley, RN

Comment from mhgdairy on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T02:01:25Z

Now he rests in the Savior's arms. What a joy it must be for him. God's blessings to you and your family until the great reunion in heaven.

Comment from Chris H. on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T01:59:51Z

John,

You and your family are in our prayers and thoughts.

If there is anything we can do...

r/
Chris H.

Comment from Pogue on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T01:26:51Z

John, My deepest condolences.

Comment from RichinKCK on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T01:17:15Z

My condolence to your family on the loss of your father.

Deepest Regards

RichinKCK

Comment from Lamigra on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T01:13:59Z

Colonel Timothy Donovan

Please 'scuse my overlooking the obvious.

Comment from Chadd in FL on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T01:10:39Z

God bless you and your family and God bless your Father and his service. You have my deepest sympathies.

Comment from Lamigra on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T01:08:38Z

Oh no! Say it ain't so! Oh my!!!!!!

Ah, well, as already stated, Thanks to God that such men lived.

As I am wont to say at these times...

He is in a better place

He feels no pain

He is whole again

He awaits you and yours at Fiddler's Green

As I said to my wife upon the loss of her second son,

Don't be in a hurry, he has all eternity, there at Fiddler's Green, to wait.

Happy Trails, LTC Donovan, you were a good man, and served your country well.

Comment from San Antonio Rose on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T01:08:00Z

Oh, John. I'm so very sorry.
Blasted entropy....

Comment from olga on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T00:59:22Z

(((hugs)))

Comment from Kevin on 2009-09-09

2009-09-10T00:00:05Z

Oh, fuggin' a......

You have my sincerest and most heartfelt sympathies.

Your father was a giant amongst dwarves.

You know I'm in town. I'll be at the ceremony.

Drop by my shop, I have a beer, tequilia, bourbon, scotch, or... Irish Whiskey to send Paddy off to Fiddlers Green in style.

Lord Have Mercy!

My condolences not only on YOUR loss, but the loss for the Republic.

He was a fine man, nay, a great man.

You should be as proud of him as he was of you.

Pipers Up!

RIP. Colonel Donovan!

Comment from Murray on 2009-09-09

2009-09-09T23:39:51Z

Thanks to God that such men lived.