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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of Coady Alexander Donovan on April 8, 2026, just short of his 30th birthday on April 24th.
A graduate of Memorial High School’s carpentry program,Coady was a true jack of all trades. Whether tackling carpentry, mechanics, or welding, he possessed an uncanny ability to watch a quick YouTube tutorial and get the job done. Strong and athletic, Coady enjoyed basketball in his younger years and was a natural in the water, outswimming anyone. He found his greatest peace on the water, lobster fishing alongside the “Figgy Duff” and the “Karen and Lisa” crews. With his quick grin and love of having a good laugh, Coady made friends wherever he went, especially on the docks and construction sites.
To Coady, friends and family were everything, but his greatest love was his sweetheart of 14 years, Janelle Berk, and their beloved children, Lachlan, his pride and joy and precious baby girl, Stella. Wherever Coady went, Lachlan was never far behind. From the baseball and soccer fields to the hockey rinks, Coady was a devoted dad who made everyday fun.
Uncle Coady will forever be remembered as a steadfast supporter to his nieces and nephew. He took the time to make lasting memories, taking them on countless adventures, and cherishing every craft, card, and note they made for him.
Left to mourn this incredible loss are his father, Troy Fudge (Lisa), grandfather, Harold Donovan, brothers, Nick (Logan),and Tristan, sweet niece, Aleah, Uncle Billy (Amelia) Donovan,best friend Mike Mackay, lifelong special neighbours Wayne (Wendy) Hicks, Michael (Jennifer) MacIntyre, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Coady shared a special bond with Janelle’s family, stepping into the roles of the son, brother, and nephew they never had. His absence will be profoundly felt by his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Shannon and Francis Berk, sisters-in-law, Ashley (Graham) Carmichael, and Candace Berk, and cherished nephew and nieces, Blake, Carlie, and Bridget. He will also be missed by Uncle Murph and cousin Lily.
There is a long line of friends and family waiting to embrace Coady in heaven, including his mother, Susan Donovan,grandmother, Lillian Donovan, uncle, Kevin (Dabber) Donovan,and good friend, Brandon Gracie.
The family sincerely thanks the ICU staff who provided care for Coady, as well as everyone who reached out, visited, and brought food during this difficult time.
In his final act of kindness, Coady chose to give to those in need through organ and tissue donation.
Visitation will take place on Monday, April 13th, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at J.M. Jobes Funeral Home, Sydney Mines. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, April 14th, 11:00 a.m. at Saint Joseph’s Parish, North Sydney, with a luncheon to follow at Holy Family Church Hall, Sydney Mines. Burial will take place at a later date.
“If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever.”
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Coady Alexander Donovan, please visit our floral store.