Boardman, Ohio, December 27, 2025
News Summary
The Boardman community is mourning the loss of Thomas P. Donadee, a dedicated firefighter and community leader, who passed away at age 61. Known for his love of golf and commitment to family, Tom inspired many through his service and coaching. As a firefighter and mentor, he touched countless lives and leaves behind a legacy of love and support for his family and the community.
In Loving Memory of Thomas P. Donadee
The vibrant community of Boardman is mourning the loss of a beloved firefighter and community leader, Thomas P. Donadee, who passed away on December 22, 2025, at the age of 61. Surrounded by his loving family, Tom fought a courageous battle with cancer before his peaceful departure.
A Life of Service
Born in Youngstown, Ohio, Tom was the son of Frank and Janet Donadee and graduated from Austintown Fitch High School in 1982. Having a heart for service, he joined the National Guard, completing his basic training at Fort McClellan in Alabama. He later attended Youngstown State University, where he earned a degree in marketing in 1988.
For 13 years, Tom contributed to the family business at 5D Construction Co. but found his true calling when he joined the Boardman Township Fire Department in 1995. Over nearly three decades, he rose to the rank of lieutenant and concluded his career as a respected fire inspector. Colleagues and community members alike admired Tom’s dedication and professionalism.
Family and Community Man
In 1983, at a pivotal moment in his life, Tom met his future wife, Karen, in Daytona Beach, and they tied the knot on November 5, 1988. Together, they welcomed two sons, Jake and Tommy, who brought immense joy and pride to Tom’s life.
Tom was not only a devoted family man, but he also had a passion for coaching football. He began his coaching journey with the Boardman Local 1176 flag football team and went on to leave his mark with the Canfield Little Cardinals and later at Canfield Middle School. His leadership and care for his players created a supportive environment while instilling a winning attitude on the field.
A Life Full of Adventure
When he wasn’t putting on his fire gear or coaching young athletes, Tom enjoyed a plethora of outdoor activities including golfing and pickleball. He loved taking camping trips to Cook Forest, Pennsylvania, and cherishing family memories with yearly trips to Lake Placid, New York. Additionally, Tom spent over 30 years enjoying annual golf trips to Myrtle Beach with his brothers and friends, fostering lifelong memories.
Travel was a major part of Tom’s life, especially with his supportive wife, Karen. They ensured their family made the most of vacations, enjoying many trips to St. Pete Beach. Passionate sports fan, he whole-heartedly supported teams like the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns, and was often found tailgating for Youngstown State football on crisp Saturday afternoons.
A Culinary Enthusiast
Beyond sports and outdoor activities, Tom was also a fantastic cook. He took great pride in entertaining loved ones and was known for his famous hot peppers and oil. Through his culinary talents, he shared a little piece of himself with everyone who gathered around his table.
Remembering Tom
Though Tom’s life was cut short, his spirit lives on in the hearts of his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Frank Donadee; brother, Robert Donadee; and several in-laws. He is survived by his cherished mother, Janet Donadee; wife, Karen Donadee; sons, Tommy (Savannah) and Jake (Morgan Donithan) Donadee; brothers Richard and John (Brenda) Donadee; sisters-in-law Katie (Bill) Haas and Suzy (Nick) Manos; and many nieces and nephews.
The community will have an opportunity to pay their respects during calling hours set for January 3, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home in Canfield, followed by a service celebrating Tom’s life.
The family kindly requests donations be made to the Boardman Professional Firefighters Local 1176 Scholarship Fund in lieu of flowers, ensuring that Tom’s legacy of love and support extends beyond his time with us.
For those wishing to share their condolences or view the obituary, they can do so online at www.higgins-reardon.com.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Higgins Reardon Funeral Home: Thomas P. Donadee
- Wikipedia: Boardman, Ohio
- WFMJ: Longtime Boardman Firefighter Dies
- Google Search: Youngstown State University
- Legacy: Robert Donadee Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: National Guard
- WKBN: My Valley Tributes
- Google News: Boardman Firefighters
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