Robert Francis Donegan, 86, passed away peacefully at Cornerstone Hospice in The Villages on Wednesday September 17th, 2026.  Robert Francis Donegan was born on July 21, 1940, in Fair Haven, Connecticut to Edward and Elizabeth Donegan.

Robert attended St. Francis Grammar School and Notre Dame High School. While at Notre Dame High School, Robert excelled in Track and Field, which would later translate into a love for cycling. After graduation, Robert enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves where he proudly served five years. Upon his return, Robert briefly worked as a New York City taxi driver, which would explain his “spirited” driving, in a car or in a golf cart. Robert would go on to follow in his father’s footsteps, working as a railroad conductor for over 30 years before retiring. After a long day on the rail, or 18 holes of golf, Robert could be found relaxing reading the New York Times at Brian’s Pub in West Haven, CT.

After his retirement and the loss of his beloved wife Margaret, Robert moved to Ireland and began a second career as a part-time caddie at Lahinch Golf Course. Robert would boast he was the oldest and only American caddie. During one of Robert’s travels, he discovered The Villages where he purchased a home and enjoyed the golf cart community. From the Villages, Robert had many world travels, including running with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain at the age of 75.

Robert is survived by his loving daughter Kimberly Donegan; brother Donald, wife Melanie, their five children Cheryl, Beth, Kathleen, Donald Jr. and Amie along with their families. He is also survived by his best friends: John O’Connor, Kellie Kicklighter, Bernadette Aley, Willy Moise and Mr. and Mrs. Joe Mizhir. Robert is preceded in death by parents Edward and Elizabeth Donegan, beloved wife Margaret Donegan, brother Edward Donegan, and best friends Doc Reynolds and Maurice Bennett.

Robert “The Count” Donegan, always Robert never Bobby, had a zest for life and a quick wit. He loved to laugh and would talk to every stranger. He was a voracious reader, loved World War 2 History, New York City, Ireland, golf and travel. He was an avid clock collector and proud blood donor. Robert would volunteer on Thanksgiving at New Song Community Church to feed the hungry. At 7:04p on September 17th, Margaret picked up Robert at his final station stop.

I love and miss you already my Roberto!

Memorial Mass will be October 14, 2026 10am St. Timothy Catholic Church, Lady Lake, FL. Please raise a glass of Guinness Stout where you are and make an Irish toast to Robert.

-In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Cornerstone Hospice in Robert’s name. Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.