James McKay Donkin of Vero Beach, Florida, formerly of Madison, Connecticut.
Jim was born in Port Chester, New York on August 29, 1938.
He grew up in Mount Vernon and, through hard work, put himself through school at University of Bridgeport.
His choice of engineering as a career proved a good fit, and Jim eventually built his own manufacturing company in Connecticut, which is still family owned – a fact he was very proud of.
As a father of three, he set an example of strength and determination, with a little fun thrown in.
Vacations were always taken, dollhouses built by hand, and motorcycles repaired in the garage. Though his eldest son, Scott, predeceased him in 2021, his son Sean, and daughter, Leslie were by his side at the end.
With a taste for the finer things in life, Jim enjoyed traveling with countless friends and loved ones, dining out, attending concerts, lectures, and gallery showings. A lover of adventure, he passionately pursued many hobbies and interests during his life: sailing, flying, cars and motorcycles, jazz music, art and interior design…and passed many of these interests on to his children and eleven grandchildren.
Through his work with AA, he found joy in helping others. He was a courageous example to both his family and friends in his sobriety and in his quest to bring that gift to those in need.
In spite of several health setbacks in the last few years of his life, Jim remained positive and upbeat, determined to live life to its fullest to the very end. Jim passed away peacefully on March 9, in Vero Beach, Florida, where he resided in his retirement. According to his wishes he will be cremated. A celebration of his life will be held at the Vero Beach Yacht Club with family and close friends.