Irene Canepa Donovan, a longtime resident of the Lompoc area passed away peacefully on May 8 surrounded by her family.

Irene Canepa was born near Hollister California and obtained a teaching degree from San Jose State at the age of 21. During the depression, her first teaching job was at the now historic La Honda one room schoolhouse where she taught grades 1 through 8. She subsequently spent many years teaching at the Lompoc Elementary School.

In 1941 she married Thomas Donovan. They spent the next 56 years farming and ranching on Santa Rosa Rd. They were well known in the northern Santa Barbara County agricultural community.

Survivors include son Tim Donovan, daughter Nancy Donovan Nelsen, and granddaughter Nicole Nelsen.

Even after her shift in career she never lost her dedication to teaching, often tutoring both children and adults right up to her last year. She had a special interest in helping immigrant families master the English language. She loved children and loved animals. It is therefore requested that in lieu of flowers that donations be made to "Friends of the Lompoc Library" for purchase of new childrens books on animals (501 E North Avenue, Ph 875-8775)

Visitation will be at 6 p.m. with a Vigil service at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at Starbuck Lind Mortuary.