Donovan Kelly Walsh
Donovan Kelly Walsh, 36, passed away August 30. He was born in Nome, Alaska to Robert and Patrice Walsh. A lifelong Alaskan and accomplished outdoorsman, he grew up hunting, fishing and camping across Alaska.
Donovan was a graduate of West High School Class of 2003. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) and received a MS in Global Energy Management from the University of Colorado, Denver. Donovan was working as a project manager for STG Pacific.
As an accomplished athlete, there was no sport that he would not rise to the challenge. He was a Nordic skier with the UNR where he also played rugby. Donovan was a 9-time finisher of the Mt. Marathon race and an Eagle Scout. He enjoyed mountain biking, downhill and cross country skiing, running and wrestling with all his nephews. He also traveled the globe for work and pleasure.
Above all, Donovan was devoted to his family, friends and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Daniel and Agnes Walsh of Anchorage. He was followed in death by his grandmother Helen Knobbe of St. Louis the same day.
Donovan is survived by his grandfather Leonard Knobbe of St. Louis, parents Robert and Patrice Walsh of Anchorage, brother Brennan (Valerie) Walsh of Anchorage, sister Shannon (Andrew) Michaelson of Pennsylvania, his four nephews Axl, Gunnar, Thor Michaelson and Hugo Walsh, and his girlfriend Alexandra Stone of Anchorage. In addition, he will be missed by his countless Walsh and Knobbe aunts, uncles, cousins and friends with whom he shared his sense of adventure and passion for Alaska.
Donovan passed away doing what he loved, exploring Alaska. He died while mountain biking the Resurrection Pass Trail near Hope, AK. The family would like to thank the numerous people involved in his rescue. We are forever grateful for all they did. WE take solace that he was in a place that he loved, doing what he loved and with the people whom he loved. Un amico a tutti.
Due to COVID restrictions and considerations, a private, invitation-only memorial service will be held Thursday, Sept. 10 at 9:45 a.m. The service will be made available online for all to join and share: https://www.facebook.com/stpatsak
In lieu of flowers please consider a contribution in Donovan’s memory to your favorite outdoor organization. Some examples include the Nordic Ski Association of Anchorage or Alaska Mountain Rescue Group.
