Frederick W. Donehey, Sr. a lifelong resident of Medford and a retired Firefighter Medford Fire Department passed away peacefully, Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the Massachusetts General Hospital following a lengthy period of declining health. He was 89. Fred was the beloved husband of the late Dorothy "Dottie" (Molinari) Donehey and together they shared nearly sixty years of marriage. Born in Medford, Fred was one of five children of the late James R. and Eileen G. (Barry) Donehey.
Fred was raised and educated in Medford. He proudly and honorably served in the United States Army during the Vietnam era from 1955 to 1958. Fred was appointed to the Medford Fire Department in June of 1965. He faithfully served the City of Medford with distinction and professionalism for the next 36 years until his retirement in April of 2001. In his leisure time, Fred enjoyed gardening, growing some of the finest tomatoes South Medford has ever seen. He also enjoyed spending summer vacations in Marshfield with family and friends, playing games and especially the card game Scat. He also liked to spend time at the Fireman's Club in Medford where he could relax, socialize and catch up with the guys. However, Fred's greatest joy was his family and nothing made him happier than to be surrounded by those he loved. Fred will be fondly remembered for his warm and welcoming personality. He will be greatly missed.
Fred is lovingly survived by his children, Frederick W. Donehey, Jr. and his wife Michele, Dennis Donehey and his wife Jennifer, Joan "Babe" Limone and her husband Paul, all of Medford. He was the loving grandfather of Michael, Ava, Harper, and Henley. Cherished brother of Helen Burgoyne of Medford, the late Eileen "Renee" Donehey, James and Jack Donehey. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours at the Dello Russo Funeral Home Tuesday, January 13th, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. followed by a funeral Mass celebrated in St. Raphael Church, 512 High St., Medford, at 11:30 a.m. Services will conclude with Military Honors and burial at Medford's, Oak Grove Cemetery.