In 1977, Donavon began his fire service career at Fire District 3 as a summer youth employee. In addition to serving the District, he volunteered five years for Fire District 13/NCEMS and worked 18 months as a part-time employee for American Ambulance. He has started many programs, associations, committees, and groups that provide service affecting fire prevention & education, training, EMS, and fire service certifications both locally and abroad.

Planning operations and safety for the Fire District are among Donavon's primary responsibilities. He is active with the State Accreditation and Certification program, the Clark County Operations Division, and the Clark County National Fire Incident Report System Group. Specific activities include interagency coordination of emergency resources, communications, and emergency response plans.

Donavon holds an Associate of Science Degree in Fire Protection Technology (Portland Community College), is a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program, and is currently working on a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration (Warner Pacific College).

Donavon lives in Hockinson with his wife and daughter. He has two grown children and two grandchildren.