Daniel Cochran Donovan, age 76, of Willard, died unexpected but peacefully on Tuesday, June 3, 2014 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Wilmington, NC.

Born on September 19, 1937, in Lawrence, MA and was the son of the late Timothy James and Rose Hazel Cochran Donovan. He was predeceased by his sister, Joanne Chaput and brothers, Billy Donovan, Jerry Donovan and Peter Donovan.

Mr. Donovan served his country honorably in the US Navy. After the military, he served his community as a police officer in New Hampshire.

Later in life, Mr. Donovan became involved with the filming industry and was a very accomplished actor and screen writer. In this industry, he became acquainted with many people who became near and dear to his heart. With his excellent talent, Dan was featured in numerous films such as "Cabin Fever", "Death, Taxes and Chocolate", "Dead End Job" and "Safe Haven". He also was part of television series, "One Tree Hill" and "The Other Half of Me". Because of his great acting skills and great personality, he graciously trod the Red Carpet that was held for the Wilmington filming community. Mr. Donovan was also chosen and became Judge of Penderlea for the Precinct of Pender County. He enjoyed the outdoors, nature and animals. He loved life, lived it the fullest and still had a huge list of projects he planned to do. Dan was truly a gentleman and was loved by all who knew him. Dan will surely be missed but treasured memories will forever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved Daniel C. Donovan.

Dan is survived by his brothers, Timothy James Donovan and wife, Maureen of Newton, NH, Paul John Donovan of Eufaula, OK ; sister, Mary Rose Cieslik and husband, John of Sandown, NH; numerous nieces, nephews and friends and his extended family in the filming industry who loved and adored Dan.

You may send your condolences to the family by selecting our "˜Memory Wall' above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Wallace, 612 S. Norwood Street, Wallace, NC 28466, 910-285-4005.
There will be no services in NC.