James J. O'Donnell's Obituary
James J. O’Donnell, 87, of Liverpool, NY passed away peacefully on Friday, May 26, 2017. James “Jim” was born on December 6, 1929 to James and Madeline (Taylor) O’Donnell in Brooklyn, NY. He attended grade school at Visitation and was a graduate of St. Leonard’s Academy in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn. Jim married his high school sweetheart, Jean M. Dunn on July 14, 1951. Jim proudly served his country in the US Army during the Korean conflict, stationed in Germany. He retired as a Public Safety Supervisor from SUNY DELHI.
Prior to moving to Liverpool, Jim lived in Andes, NY for many years. He was a longtime member of the Andes fire department, a dedicated member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church, a committed member of the Del-Sullivan Town baseball league, and a volunteer for the American Legion summer baseball program. He was a devoted father and enjoyed attending all of his children’s activities throughout the years. Additionally, Jim loved traveling and camping with his family, especially at Pioneer Trails and in Virginia Beach.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Jean M. (Dunn) O’Donnell; a sister, Madeline “Chickie” (O’Donnell) Emmitt of Oneonta, NY; his sons, Jamie O’Donnell of Hamden, NY, Kevin O’Donnell of Bowman, GA, Shawn O’Donnell of Bath, ME, and Patrick O’Donnell of Liverpool, NY; his daughters, Karen (O’Donnell) Williams and Eileen (O’Donnell) Knickerbocker, both of Liverpool, NY. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, June 1, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY, where the family will be in attendance. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 2, 2017, 11:00 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 425 Beachwood Ave., Liverpool, NY. Burial will be Saturday, June 3, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in Andes Cemetery, Andes, NY. Words of comfort may be expressed at tjpfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Golisano Children's Hospital in Syracuse, NY or to a Catholic Charity of choice.
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