Daniel Donovan, an accomplished lawyer in Bath who became president and chief executive officer of First Federal Savings in Bath and served as chairman of its board of directors for the past 10 years, died Thursday. He was 77.

He practiced law in Bath with the late Duane “Buzz” Fitzgerald over 20 years. He switched careers in 1986 and joined First Federal Savings. He retired in 2004, but continued to serve as chairman of its board of directors.

He was remembered by his colleagues this week as a respected and hard-working man who made a difference in people’s lives.

“He had a very large presence in this community,” said Lynn Jennison, secretary to the board of directors. “His employees adored the man. You could go to him with any problem – personal or professional – and he would always help you.”

As head of First Federal, Mr. Donovan was active in the community. He served on numerous boards of organizations, including the YMCA, the Maine Maritime Museum, the Bath Water District and the Bath School Board. He also served as president of the Maine Savings & Loan Association, chairman of the Bath Customs House, chairman of the Morse Vocational School Building Committee, and chairman of the First Federal Savings board.

Mr. Donovan also was remembered Monday as a confident and capable man who gave generously to the community and cared deeply about education causes.

His wife, Catherine Dupuis-Tait, said First Federal made a donation every year to the school she taught at. She also noted his contributions to the building committee for Morse Vocational School. She said he enjoyed interacting with people and being a part of the community.

“He enjoyed walking up and down the street and checking on the heartbeat of the community,” his wife said. “When people asked him for something or to do something … he was right there. He was right there ’til the end doing things for people. He was an amazing man.”

Mr. Donovan and his wife were married for three years but together for 26 years. He had three daughters from his first marriage. His wife said he was a good father and provider for his family. She said he was supportive of their education and encouraged them to play sports, ski and travel.

His wife said they had a good life together.

“I’ll miss talking to him and sharing ideas with him,” she said. “I felt loved.”

Mr. Donovan had struggled with chronic health problems for the past several years. His wife said it didn’t stop him from checking in daily with the bank and Bath Customs House. She said he will be missed by many people.

“We’re a small community. He loved Bath. He was absolutely committed to Bath,” she said.