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John Thomas Doubrava, 77, of Burlington, KY, passed away peacefully at his residence on December 7, 2025 — exactly two years after the passing of his beloved wife of 51 years, Donna.
Born on May 1, 1948, in Cleveland, OH, John was the son of the late Charles and Lillian Doubrava. He grew up with a strong foundation of faith, discipline, and devotion — values that guided him throughout his entire life. A man of deep conviction, John was known for being strong, hardworking, and profoundly dedicated to his church and his community. He led by example, lived with integrity, and was quick to place the needs of others before his own.
John was a graduate of Riverside High School in Dearborn Heights, MI, and went on to earn a Law Enforcement degree from Detroit College of Business, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Accounting. He proudly served as a Criminal Investigator for the IRS for 33 years, where his diligence and steadfast moral compass helped shape a respected career. Following his retirement from federal service, John continued his vocation of service as Business Finance Director at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Burlington, KY.
If John found time for himself, he filled it with the things he loved most; golfing, watching NASCAR, enjoying a good grill-out, or spending cherished time with his granddaughters and family. He and Donna shared a special joy in fine dining and spending time together, faithfully keeping their calendars full and their lives rich with connection.
John was a longtime and devoted parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish. His faith life extended deeply into service, including membership in the Bishop Ackerman Council #5453 Knights of Columbus, the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, the Mary Rose Mission Board, and the Fraternal Order of Police Boone County Lodge #46.
In addition to his parents and his wife Donna, John was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Lou, sister, Bernadine Sekeres, and his brother-in-law Martin Sekeres
. He is survived by his sons: Jeffrey Doubrava; Tom (Cara Ball) Doubrava; and Charles (Rose) Doubrava; his sister, Charlotte Girardot; his granddaughters, MacKenzie (Steven) Emerson and Kylie Doubrava; and his great-grandson, Owen Emerson.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 10AM-11AM at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11AM. There will be a reception after mass in the church undercroft.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish 5876 Veterans Way Burlington, KY 41005 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (Alternatively — visit stjude.org to donate online.)
To share a story or leave an online condolence, please visit: www.linnemannfuneralhomes.com.
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church
5876 Veterans WayBurlington KY 41005
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church
5876 Veterans WayBurlington KY 41005
Linnemann Funeral Home Crematory
Address: 30 Commonwealth Avenue Erlanger, KY - Kentucky 41018John Thomas Doubrava
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