Even in his final moments, Michael Donahue breathed life into those around him.

Described by a family friend as "the kindest, most caring person," Michael's donation of vital organs is a metaphor for his giving spirit in life -- a life spent loving family and friends, making people laugh and cheering on Penn State and New York sports teams.

"Every time we were with him, we laughed until we cried. He was always making jokes, making everyone smile," said Ginny Witcoski, a Penn State senior who has known Michael since childhood. "Even if people didn't know him, he would have them laughing hysterically."

Witcoski said Michael loved Penn State and sporting events. A diehard football fan, Michael was an avid tailgater and attended all the games. Witcoski said she could hear him cheering blocks away after the games.

"I wouldn't even have to call him -- I could hear him coming," she said.

Michael, 22, grew up in Drums, located northwest of Allentown. He went to Hazleton High School before attending Penn State's Hazleton campus for the beginning of his college career.

He was a senior, a crime, law and justice major, and he lived in an apartment on Vairo Boulevard with friends.

Michael was taller than most, standing at about 6-feet, 7-inches, said Maria Agrespi, a friend from The Arena, 1521 Martin St., where Michael once worked as a bouncer. She said he loved the New York Yankees and the New York Giants.

"Mike was probably one of the best kids I've ever known -- a real hard worker, one of the nicest kids in the world," Agrespi said.

"I don't think he ever got into a fight in his life. He was just an all-around good kid," Agrespi added. "He was always kind of the peacemaker."

Witcoski said she felt safe when Micheal was around.

"We joked around that he was our bodyguard. That's what I used to call him. I always felt so protected when I was with him," she said.

Maryanne Petrilla, a family friend, said Michael always had a ton of friends and was extremely outgoing.

"We've known Michael since he was a baby. Our sons played together from the time they were three years old," she said. "It's a loss for the school; it's a loss for the town. It's just a terrible, terrible thing."

Michael's family members, who are currently dealing with the loss, were unavailable for comment.

"They're a very, very close family. This is just devastating," Petrilla explained.

Michael's funeral will be held at 9:30 Thursday morning at the Harman Funeral Homes & Crematory Inc., 669 W. Butler Drive, Drums. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call tomorrow evening from 6 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests memorial donations to Gift of Life Donor Program, 401 N. Third St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19123, or the American Cancer Society.

Condolences can be e-mailed to condolences@harmanfuneral.com.