Mr. Kevin T. Doolan

WATERBURY – It is with heavy hearts, but also with gratitude for a life well-lived, that the family of Kevin Thomas Doolan announces his unexpected passing at his home on Monday, September 29, 2025, at the age of 71.

Born on November 17, 1953, in Waterbury, Connecticut, Kevin was the beloved son of the lateFrancis “Pup” and Catherine “Rita” (McDonald) Doolan. From an early age, Kevin’s life was marked by curiosity, intelligence, and a love of music that would stay with him forever. A proud graduate of Wolcott High School and the University of Connecticut, where he earned his degree with high honors, Kevin went on to live a life filled with creativity, humor, and quiet dedication.

In his younger years, Kevin explored the stage through local theater before heading west to California. There, he found his groove at Phoebus Lighting, helping bring to life theater, movie, and concert productions. But it was with a guitar in his hands that Kevin’s spirit truly soared. As lead guitarist and vocalist for the San Francisco band Johnny and the Potato Chips, Kevin lit up countless nights with music, laughter, and a touch of mischief. When Kevin eventually returned to Connecticut in the early 2000s, he continued to share his talents—this time in the precision world of manufacturing—as an EDM machinist at Connecticut Hypodermics, until his well-earned retirement. Though he grew more private in his later years, Kevin never lost his passions. He loved a good book, a classic movie, or a live concert that could transport him back to the thrill of the stage. Most of all, he cherished time with his family, who always knew that even his famous “Irish Goodbyes” were just Kevin’s way of saying he loved you—without all the fuss. Kevin’s life was one of quiet impact, sharp wit, and deep love for the people and music that mattered most. He will be remembered with a smile, a laugh, and maybe a guitar riff echoing in the background.

Left to honor his legacy and cherish his memory are his siblings: Terrance Doolan and his wife, Beth, of Waterbury, Kerry Tutolo and her husband, Steven, of Wolcott, Michael Doolan and his partner, Joan Trainor, of Wolcott, and Patrick Doolan and his wife, Alaine, of Bristol. He is predeceased by his sister-in-law Kathleen Sullivan Doolan. He also leaves several nieces, nephews, cousins, as well as other extended family members, and many friends.

Funeral services for Kevin will be held on Thursday, October 9th, 2025, at 11:00 am at Casey's Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects and visit with Kevin's family on Thursday morning from 10:00 am until the time of the service at 11:00 am. Loving kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to offer a message of condolence, words of comfort, or share a memory of someone important to you with your family and friends. Please visit the funeral home’s tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to do so.

To honor Kevin's memory please consider a donation to Relay For Life Greater Waterbury at
http://main.acsevents.org/goto/hugsandymcd