Kevin O'Donovan

Kevin Matthew O'Donovan, 48, passed unexpectedly on September 23, 2021. He was born in Grand Rapids, MI and resided in Alexandria, VA. Kevin graduated from Forest Hills Northern High School in 1990. He went on to study at George Washington University and the London School of Economics. After completing his studies in London, Kevin returned to Washington D.C. where he worked briefly in the private sector. He then focused his career in government service joining the Department of Energy and ultimately becoming a Senior Domestic Policy Advisor for Vice President Cheney. Kevin left the White House in 2005 and began a long career in government relations focusing on issues associated with the energy industry and nature conservation. He was also active in philanthropy, having served on the board of directors for Ducks Unlimited and the Building Conservation Trust. Most recently Kevin was the Chairman of the Board for the Coastal Conservation Association of Maryland. While some might say he had a stubborn streak, his passion and resiliency made him an ideal advocate for the causes he championed.

Kevin was a force of nature, determined to help those around him and provide for his family. His family and friends meant more to him than anything else in the world. He was an intensely loyal friend who would drop everything to help someone in need. His work and propensity to travel for hunting and fishing trips took him to places around the world where he was quick to make friendships that lasted throughout his life.

Kevin was a devoted and loving father, brother and son. He is survived by his daughter, Grace, his brother and his wife, Ryan and Stephanie, his parents, Tim and Karen, his nephew, Graham, and his niece, Nora.

A private celebration of Kevin's life will be held in Alexandria, Virginia for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Coastal Conservation Association of Maryland. https://www.ccamd.org/kevin-odonovan/

Kevin’s family wishes to gather memories and photos here on this site for his beloved daughter, Grace. Kevin was a deeply devoted father to Grace, involved in every aspect of her life from traveling together to school to Indian Princesses. She will miss the telling and retelling of stories of Kevin’s upbringing, work and exploits with his wide circle of friends. Capturing our dear friend in ways that are significant and everyday will be a comfort to Grace.   Please share a picture, memory or a story or two with her by November 20 in the Tribute section of this website.    We also hope that you will please share this request and link with all of the people that know Kevin in your circle of friends and colleagues.