David C. Donegan, 78

David Charles Donegan, age 78, of Groton, passed away peacefully on Jan. 1, 2026, after a short battle with cancer.

Born in 1947, in Springfield, Vermont, David was the beloved son of F. Miriam and John F. Donegan. He spent his childhood and young adulthood in Springfield, before bravely enlisting in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era. He achieved the rank of boatswain’s mate and served throughout the Pacific theater, traveling to New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, and across the South China Sea. An excellent swimmer, he aided in reconnaissance and rescue operations. Stateside, he served in Bremerton, Washington, and Long Beach, California. Like many Vietnam veterans, David was deeply proud of his service while also carrying painful memories and the political complexities of that era.

Following his military service, David graduated from Keene State College with a degree in physical education. He worked as a camp counselor for Easter Seals and later as an elementary school physical education teacher in the Hampton school district. He spent much of his career with the United States Postal Service, retiring as a clerk in Concord, in 1995. Known for his care, leadership, and honesty, he took pride in quality work and meaningful relationships.

He lived in Hampton and Goffstown, where he raised his two daughters, and later resided in Strafford, Vermont, Orford, and for the final 25 years of his life, in the quiet solitude of Groton.

David had a lifelong passion for deer hunting, salmon and trout fishing, shooting and ballistics, and a profound love of animals. He was preceded in death by many beloved dogs and cats and was a devoted supporter of nonprofit organizations that care for animals. He was known for his humor, generosity, storytelling, and laughter, and he actively participated in personal growth and recovery groups, including those serving veterans.

Above all else, David was a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his daughters, Tara Dykhuizen of Moline, Illinois, and April Donegan of Burlington, Vermont; his former wives, Julie Woodland of Moline, Illinois, and Gina Donegan of Groton; four grandchildren, Gabe, Will, Anne and Julia; and his siblings, J. Francis Donegan of Litchfield, and Jane Donegan of Windsor, Vermont. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A graveside service will be held in the spring. Inquiries can be made to gdonegan@yahoo.com.