KALAMAZOO, Mich. – The Western Michigan Division of Intercollegiate Athletics and the men's tennis team mourn the passing of WMU Athletic Hall of Famer Bud Donnelly.

Donnelly, born in Kalamazoo in 1934, played tennis at Western Michigan from 1952-56 while earning his Bachelor of Arts degree. During his time with the Broncos, he helped the program win three Mid-American Conference Championships. During those years he also won individual MAC Titles in 1954, 1955 and 1956 in singles. Donnelly also won MAC Doubles Titles with Jim Farrell in 1954 and 1955 and Denny Telder in 1956. He held program records for both singles and doubles wins.

After his time at WMU, he started his teaching career at Mattawan High School in 1958. He continued play tennis with Bronco tennis legend Jack Vredevelt as a top-ranked doubles team in the Midwest.  In 1963, Donnelly came back to Western Michigan in the Student Services Division, where he spent 35 years.

Donnelly served on the WMU Athletic Board for several years, was the president of the "W" Club for over a decade and served on the WMU Athletic Hall of Fame Committee. Donnelly, himself, was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1995.

"Bud Donnelly was a dedicated supporter of Western Michigan Athletics and a true champion for our student-athletes, especially through his unwavering commitment to our men's tennis program and as past chair of the Hall of Fame committee," said Vice President/Director of Athletics, Dan Bartholomae.  "He was a cherished member of our Bronco family, and his impact will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time."

"Bud Donnelly, was a one-of-a-kind soul who touched the hearts of thousands in the Bronco family," said former long-time WMU Athletics Director Kathy Beauregard. "While Bud has left this earth, his spirit will forever remain in our hearts. He truly embodied what it means to be a Bronco for Life, and we are endlessly grateful for his unwavering commitment to our students and Western Michigan University.

Bud was a devoted family man, and his passion for sharing stories about his proud days as a Bronco, his family, and his deep love for tennis was a joy to all who knew him. A tireless volunteer in athletics, he was also a trailblazer with the USTA Boys National Tennis Championship. Bud's life was truly a blessing, and the memories he gave us will be cherished forever. He is loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure."

"Bud was one-of-a-kind and we will all miss his infections smile and ability to bring out the best in others," added WMU men's tennis head coach Dave Morin.

For Bud Donnelly's full story and information on his Celebration of Life, please click here.