This timeline provides an overview of Marion Donovan's personal life, including her marriages, children, and family relationships.
Birth of Marion O'Brien
October 15, 1917
Marion O'Brien was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Miles and Christine O'Brien. Her father was an inventor.
Marriage to James F. Donovan
1942
Marion O'Brien married James F. Donovan. Together, they had three children.
Motherhood and Inspiration for 'The Boater'
1950s
Being a mother to three children, Marion experienced the challenges of diapering firsthand, which served as the primary motivation for inventing the disposable diaper cover.
Divorce from James F. Donovan
1958
Marion Donovan and James F. Donovan divorced.
Marriage to John F. Butler
1958
Marion Donovan married John F. Butler. He later died in 1974.
Death
November 4, 1998
Marion Donovan passed away at the age of 81 in New York City.
