Donald J. Moynihan
March 5, 1938 - February 13, 2025
Donald J. Moynihan Obituary
Donald J. Moynihan, 86, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2025, at Holyoke Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. A lifelong resident of Holyoke, Donald was born on March 5, 1938, to the late John and Dolores (Orban) Moynihan. He was a proud graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Class of 1957. Donald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family will be dearly missed. He shared 64 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Evelyn. Together, they built a loving home filled with laughter, strong values, and cherished memories. He was a dedicated father to his four children: Jeffery Moynihan, Deborah Dostal-Pijar and her husband Mark, Mark Moynihan, and Brian Moynihan and his wife Elizabeth. He was also a proud and adoring “Boppy” to his grandchildren: John Dostal, Nathan Moynihan, Emma Moynihan, and Chloe Moynihan, and a beloved uncle to many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Donald had a strong work ethic and a passion for his trade. He worked as an electrician for Lapinski Electric Inc. from the early 1960s until 1985, when he took a leap of faith and founded his own business, Moynihan Electric. As a business owner, he served his community with integrity and skill until his retirement in 2003. His craftsmanship, honesty, and dedication earned him the respect of colleagues and customers alike. Beyond his professional life, Donald was deeply involved in his community. He was a proud and active member of the Holyoke Saint Patrick’s Parade Committee, where he played a vital role in celebrating the city's rich Irish heritage. He served as a Parade Coordinator for many years, helping to organize and ensure the success of one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was honored with The Thomas F. Rohan Memorial Award in 1987, an esteemed accolade given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the parade and the community. Donald was also a longtime member of the Holyoke Elks Lodge, where he formed lifelong friendships and participated in numerous charitable initiatives. His generosity, sense of humor, and welcoming spirit made him a treasured presence in every group he joined. The Moynihan family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate medical staff on the 4th floor of Holyoke Hospital. A special thank you to Bobby Jo, Celina, Belinda, Soriah, and Dr. Abuhashmeh for their extraordinary care, kindness, and support during this difficult time.
A prayer service will be held on Sunday February 23 at 2:00pm in the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street, Holyoke. Burial will be held in the spring at the convenience of the family. Calling hours are Sunday prior to the service from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Donald’s name to Jericho: The Bureau of Exceptional Children and Adults, 537 Northampton St., Holyoke, MA 01040, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Donald’s legacy of love, hard work, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
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Donald J. Moynihan, 86, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2025, at Holyoke Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. A lifelong resident of Holyoke, Donald was born on March 5, 1938, to the late John and Dolores (Orban) Moynihan. He was a proud graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Class of 1957. Donald was a devoted husband, father
Events
Visitation
Sunday, February 23, 2025
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home
2049 Northampton Street Holyoke, MA 01040
Prayer Service
Sunday, February 23, 2025
2:00 pm
Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home
2049 Northampton Street Holyoke, MA 01040