Meet 2019 Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshal Rob Donovan

FALLS CHURCH, VA—Rob Donovan has been named grand marshal of the 38th annual Falls Church Memorial Day Parade, which will happen Monday, May 27 at 2 p.m. The city's Recreation and Parks Advisory Board selected him for his volunteer efforts, particularly with Falls Church City Public Schools, over 19 years.

Donovan, his wife Kathleen and their children, Daniel and Mary Catherine moved from Arlington to Falls Church in the early 2000s. He first got involved in volunteering after the George Mason High School athletic program helped throw his son an unforgettable party at a football game.

"Talk about an intro to the warmth of the City and the intimacy of the community. We had just been here a few months," said Donovan, quoted in the city newsletter. "Daniel and Mary Catherine’s friends still talk about that birthday."

The rest was history. Rob served as a GMHS Athletic Super Booster and helped coordinate the annual mulch sale, while Kathleen held various PTA president roles for nearly 13 years. Donovan continues to volunteer mulch delivery day program and concession stands after both kids graduated from George Mason High School. He's also been the "Voice of Mustang Athletics," serving as announcer the high school football, soccer, and basketball teams.

One nominator said of Donovan's volunteer efforts, "Rob’s work over the years has helped [GMHS Athletic Booster Association] raise thousands of dollars in support of our student-athletes, our athletic department, and our high school."

Rob was previously a program manager for the United States Energy Association, as well as a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy. He served twenty years in both active and reserve duty. He also serves on the board of the Creative Cauldron, a performing arts group in Falls Church.

Donovan said the grand marshal honor is humbling. "When my wife [Kathleen] and I first visited the City, we felt this incredible warm feeling," he said. "I feel so blessed to live in Falls Church and have our kids grow up and go through school here."

Aside from the grand marshal title, Donovan has more to celebrate. His oldest son, Evan, gave Donovan his first grandchild last October.

For more on this year's Memorial Day Parade, visit www.fallschurchva.gov/645/Memorial-Day-Festival-Parade.