Donovan Black

From early on, Donovan Earl Black demonstrated a natural ability to let those around him know they were loved and cared for. Donovan exemplified a rough and tumble little boy who grew into a caring and considerate young man who valued the relationships he had with those he cared about. His joy was found in helping others and bringing a smile to the faces of those in his company. Although his life was short, compared to many, he lived the life he had with purpose, and with a heart of gold. A loving son, brother and dedicated friend, Donovan brought joy to those he knew and loved. He will be greatly missed, and fondly remembered.

Donovan’s story began on an early summer day in 1990 in the bustling city of Indianapolis, Indiana. George H. W. Bush was the 41st President of the United States as U.S. troops were being prepared for combat, joining efforts with coalition forces in the Persian Gulf. Children nationwide were flocking to get the new Sega Game Gear, and on TV, the humor of The Simpson’s and The Fresh Prince of Bel Air were viewed by many while Mariah Carey, Madonna, and New Kids on the Block were featuring their latest music videos. Although a bit of a surprise, Donovan Earl was a welcome blessing for Doug and Marianne (Stich) Black who brought added joy to their lives.

Born on June 13, 1990 at St. Vincent Hospital, Donovan was a chubby cheeked bundle of boy who was eagerly greeted by older brother Damien, and sister Devin. So excited to have a cute little brother, they doted on him affectionately. A loving boy, Donovan was content to snuggle, reading books at bedtime, and was known to crawl into bed with his big brother. A “chip off the old block” in more ways than one, he was the mirror image of his dad, and was his dad’s little shadow.

As Donovan was growing up, he developed into a slender young boy who became fearless, and who found his share of mischief. At four years old, Donovan discovered a nest of black snakes, and without hesitation, brought them around to show everyone, absolutely fearless. All boy, Donovan loved anything motorized, especially ATV’s and dirt bikes. He loved spending time with friends, and knowing some of them since grade school, they shared a special, lifelong bond. Many great times were spent with family and friends alike, enjoying bonfires in the backyard of the family home on the river, and nights spent playing outdoors. With his great love for the outdoors, growing up near the river made for some great adventures. In the summers, the family spent memorable times on Lake Wawasee boating. It was there that Donovan learned to water ski and tube with Damien and Devin.

During high school, Donovan worked at Lowe’s, and most recently went on to work as a caretaker at Heartland Residential Services. While a very smart student, Donovan wasn’t much for structure, and left Mooresville High School during his year. Realizing how important his education was, he went on to earn his GED shortly thereafter. An old soul when it came to music, he was a lover of the classics, often joking with his dad that he should have been from the era of the classic rock bands like Leonard Skynard, or the likes of Johnny Cash.

Mature for a guy his age, Donovan could often be found helping others. He helped a lady in his neighborhood with odd jobs, and with his heart of gold, was considerate of others too, especially those less fortunate. His work as a caretaker taught him much, and he came to value and appreciate his health. Very patriotic, Donovan was proud of his grandfathers who had both served during World War II. At one point, he even considered joining the U.S. Special Forces. With concern, especially with the Iraqi War overseas, his parents lovingly talked him out of it. Donovan and his dad were the best of friends, and could talk about anything.

When Donovan put his effort into something, he gave it his all. An affectionate young boy who grew into a loving young man, Donovan loved hard, and hugged even harder. His hugs were like no other, and would often be followed with a kiss on the cheek. It didn’t matter who saw him, he still showed affection to his parents. He used his charm and wit to bring laughter to those around him, and his humor on stage brought infectious smiles to many. Family was foremost in Donovan’s life, and he cherished and valued time spent with them, just talking and being together. Another beloved part of Donovan’s life was his dog, Ally. He loved her so much, the two were inseparable. She even went four wheeling with Donovan down to the river. Donovan’s favorite place to be was in the outdoors, taking in all it had to offer, with Ally by his side.

In the hearts of those who remain, Donovan’s life was taken too soon. But he lived his life well, and to the best of his ability. Most importantly, he lived his life with purpose. Quite content the day he died, it ironically may have been one of the happiest days of his young life. He spent time in the company of good friends, had a loving family, and was quite simply - happy. He found joy in serving others, especially giving of himself in his work, and felt good about the direction he was headed. He knew he was loved, and loved back his whole life through, and with everything he had. Beyond his years in age, Donovan gave to this world a piece of himself. It will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, loved him, and were grateful to have called him son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend.

Donovan Earl Black of Mooresville, age 18, died on Sunday, April 12, 2009, as a result of an automobile accident. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert Stich and Earl “Bud” and Birdie Black. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his brother, Damien Black of Mooresville, and sister, Devin Black of Franklin; grandmother, Marilyn Stich of Plainfield; many aunts, uncles, and close friends. A service to celebrate Donovan’s life will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2009, 1 PM in the Carlisle & Son Funeral Chapel, Mooresville. Visitation will be at the chapel from 4 to 8 PM on Wednesday, April 15, 2009. Burial will be in White Lick Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mooresville Veteran’s Memorial, c/o Community Foundation of Morgan County. Please visit www.carlisleandson.com to share a favorite memory, submit a photo or to sign his online guest registry.