Dorothy McQuillan Donahoe, 89

Dorothy McQuillan Donahoe, 89, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, in Kalispell. She was born on June 6, 1936, in Howell, Michigan. She lived a full and vibrant life marked by purpose, intelligence, and joy.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Donahoe, parents, Walter and Elizabeth McQuillan, brother, William McQuillan, and brothers-in-law, Alan Knight and Paul Hynes. 

She is survived by her cherished sisters, Barbara Knight and Mary Hynes. Dorothy is lovingly remembered by her three sons, Bruce (Bridget), Stuart (Sue) and Neal (Mary), cherished grandchildren, Kai, Noa, Lorena, Cole, and Natalie, as well as countless nieces and nephews. Family was the center of her world and her legacy lives on through them and in the many lives touched with her warmth and wisdom.

A woman of deep faith, Dorothy was a lifelong Catholic whose spiritual grounding guided her through life’s many chapters. She embraced each phase of life with grace and enthusiasm while serving as a role model for living successfully, purposefully and never losing sight of fun. As a teacher and librarian, Dorothy had a passion for traveling and books—interests that reflected both her curiosity about the world and her love of learning. Whether exploring new places or diving into the pages of a novel (or two or three), she found joy in discovery and reflection.

Favorite sayings from Dorothy include "let’s hurry up and have fun" and "this too shall pass," always delivered with a smile. This captures the essence of who she was—optimistic, resilient, and eager to embrace life’s next adventure.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Oct. 11 at Immanuel Living in Kalispell. May Dorothy’s memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to share in her journey.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.