Michael F. Doran

COLONIE - Michael Doran, 37, entered into eternal life on Sunday, December 27, 2020.  In the week preceding his death, he shared his light the only way he knew how: with boundless energy, laughter, and love given to his family, especially his daughter Penelope.

Michael was born on July 29, 1983 to Pamela and Gary Doran and was instantly doted on by his big brother, Stephen.  A lover of the outdoors, Michael spent much of his time riding his bike, playing Pop Warner football, hiking with friends, and cliff jumping on many occasions, even when his mom told him “no.”  He graduated from Colonie Central High School in 2001, where he met the love of his life, Jennifer, who he married in 2010 after a long and deep friendship, and many years of courting her.

He loved his family more than life itself.  Michael, his dad and brother were the best of friends, often finding adventures together like fishing trips or flipping houses.  Together, they spent an entire summer building the family’s log home from groundbreaking through completion on Sacandaga Lake, where he would spend every waking minute if he could out on the boat or snowmobiling in winter.  He confided in his mom and searched for her with every turn or struggle.  She was his safe space.  As the baby of the family, they had a special bond only they could understand.  He admired his brother from baby steps through life, always looking up to him and admiring his love for his own family with his wife Erica, nephew, Cameron, and niece Stella.  When Stephen and Erica married, Michael instantly gained a sister and friend in Erica.

A sensitive soul, Michael wore his heart on his sleeve, and would pour out his love for Jennifer to anyone who would listen.  He truly adored her, even having a box of mementos that he called his “Jen box.”  Their profound friendship was the foundation that would carry them through their marriage, and the challenges he faced.  On December 31, 2013, they welcomed their daughter Penelope Rose, who Michael adored, and spent his final days with, snuggling, laughing, and playing together.

With a Tigger-like personality, Michael was rarely found sitting still and had a vibrant social life filled with many friends-each with a unique relationship and connection.  He was known to strike up conversations with random strangers at any given moment and loved doing so.  He was always willing to help anyone in need, or volunteer his creative, jack-of-all trade talents for a building project or home remodel.  He had a style and a vision for beauty-whether he was pulling an outfit together or designing a new kitchen.  He was a skilled tradesman and an artist in masonry, and spent many years working on commercial and residential projects across the Capital Region.  He was a dedicated, hard worker, and his goals always focused on how to give back to his family.

Michael is survived by his wife and daughter, Jennifer and Penelope, his parents Pamela and Gary Doran, his brother Stephen (Erica), nephew Cameron and niece Stella.  He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and companions.

Over the past few years Michael battled with the illness of addiction.  He has received support from countless other people along the way, especially Joy. The family kindly acknowledges all those who have been helpful to Michael.

A private funeral for family only will be held on Saturday, January 2, 2020.  There will be no calling hours.  For those who wish to honor Mike, please consider a memorial contribution to the Penelope  Doran Scholarship Fund, c/o CapCom, 4 Winners Circle, Albany, NY 12205 or Family First Intervention, 1838 West Parkside Lane, Suite 210, Phoenix, AZ 85027. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.