Mr Donnellan, 50, was a highly regarded library staff member who contributed greatly to the creation, collection and sharing of local history.

The Gerringong resident had been researching the history of local World War I soldiers and much of this information was used in local commemoration ceremonies during the past couple of years.

“Our thoughts are very much with his family, Colleen, Lauren and Jack,” Kiama Library’s manager of library services Michelle Hudson said. 

The funeral and requiem mass for Mr Donnellan will be held at St Mary Star of the Sea, Gerringong at 11am on Monday, January 9, followed by the burial at Gerringong Cemetery.

All are welcome to join the celebration of his life at Gerringong Bowling Club’s beer garden following the burial.