Kevin Joseph O'Donnell Sr.
March 24, 1957 ~ July 25, 2023
Born in:
Hamden, CT
Resided in:
Branford, CT
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kevin Joseph O’Donnell, Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and United States Marine. Kevin departed this world on July 25, 2023 surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Born in Hamden, CT to proud parents, the late George and Lorraine Tryon O’Donnell, Kevin was the epitome of a kind and gentle soul. He possessed an unwavering commitment to his family and friends, and his genuine, warm smile was a beacon of light that brightened the lives of everyone around him. A man of integrity and unwavering principles, Kevin earned the admiration and respect of all who crossed his path.
Kevin was a devoted husband to his beloved spouse Amy Sklar O’Donnell, with whom he shared a bond that stood the test of time. Their love and appreciation for each other was a testament to the beauty of true partnership, and they navigated life’s joys and challenges hand in hand, leaving an inspiring example of devotion for their loved ones to follow.
Kevin will be lovingly remembered by his children, Melissa (Paul), Brea, Kevin (Brooke), and Lexy; his grandchildren, Allan, Jonissa, Kieran, Kallen, and Kade; step-children, Melissa (AJ) and Anthony (Heather); step-grandchildren, Parker and Sydney; siblings, George (Pam), Karen (Christopher), Katherine, Eileen (William), and Maureen (Peter); friend and mother of his children, Terri O’Donnell.
As a father and grandfather, Kevin provided guidance, love, and support as they pursued their dreams. He was always present, ready to listen, and offered a reassuring presence that brought comfort in times of need. His unconditional love and encouragement knew no bounds, and his children will forever be grateful for the profound impact he had on their lives. He was their biggest cheerleader, and his memory will continue to encourage and guide them throughout their lives.
Kevin was a man of many talents and interests. He was an avid boxer and collector of vintage signs and bikes, finding solace and joy in these passions. In addition to his love for his family, Kevin had a deep love for his dogs and companions, Seamus & Luca, who spent the last several years of his life right by Kevin’s side.
Throughout his life, Kevin touched the hearts of countless individuals, fostering lifelong friendships and creating a vast network of people who deeply cared for him. His impact on the lives of others will live on, an enduring testament to the profound connections he formed.
As we mourn the loss of Kevin Joseph O’Donnell Sr., we find comfort in the memories he gifted us and the invaluable lessons he imparted. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, compassion, and kindness that will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who loved him.
Friends are invited to visit with his family on Friday, July 28th, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., at BEECHER & BENNETT FUNERAL HOME, 2300 Whitney Ave, Hamden. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, July 29th, at 10:00 a.m. in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, followed by the Rite of Committal with Military Honors in Saint Mary’s Cemetery. A live stream of the Mass will be available here: Kevin O’Donnell Funeral Mass, please use password Kevin1. Memorial donations in Kevin’s name may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
Services
Visitation: July 28, 2023 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Beecher & Bennett Funeral Service - Hamden
2300 Whitney Avenue
Hamden, CT 06518
203-288-0800
Mass of Christian Burial: July 29, 2023 10:00 am
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church
2819 Whitney Avenue
Hamden, CT 06518
203-248-0141
Deepest sympathy,
Carolyn Kelly
You were a shining star in Brea 🤍’s eyes, and from what she told me touched so many lives. I know you will continue to watch down on her and those you love.
Watch over her, she is suffering. Thank you for giving me one of my greatest gifts. Lexy will hear you when you whisper to her, she is a precious young woman who carries your name.
I am sorry, cancer took you too early- you didn’t deserve this.
Karen
I had the privilege of being introduced to Kevin by a friend. He needed a driver to accompany him to medical appointments and some other incidentals. I went to the interview one afternoon to discuss his expectations. They really were not very demanding. I was hired on the spot.
That day Kevin and I became good friends. I drove him anywhere he had to go at whatever time he had to be at an appointment. Sometimes it was as early as 6:30 AM.. but I never cared about the time. Or even where it was, always had my gps phone ready for the road. I would accompany him into the examination rooms. Sometimes the information had many details, so I remembered the instructions. We got to be a team. I just followed him everywhere and if necessary just waited for whatever procedure he was having.
Driving home, sometimes he would have a craving for these incredible hot dogs in Meriden so we’d stop. He was forever misplacing the tv remote and he’d call and I’d run to find it. I was his finder of all things Kevin misplaced or lost.
Kevin was a “Mensch” in Yiddish, a person of integrity, morality, dignity with a sense of what is right and responsible. Semper Fidelis…the motto of the United States Marines means “always faithful” or “always loyal”. And that is truly who Kevin was.
I will miss him, a gentle man who never got angry about anything that I ever saw. It was a privilege to be with him on any given day. I always tried to bring him positive love so that he would beat his illness. God just wanted this perfect man in his embrace. No more tests, finally at rest.
We shared a lot of good times and memories together. It seems just like yesterday you celebrated my wedding with us. You were, and always will be a dear friend who can never be replaced. No more suffering for you!! Just look down and watch over all of us with that big smile of yours! We will see you again someday! Love and miss you bro!
Johnny
Deepest sympathies to the family and friends of this kind and gentle soul. Rest in Peace.
Knowing Kevin was so enlightening. He was so interesting and always took the time to talk. We share the same diagnosis, a very unkind illness. My condolences to his friends and family and all who knew him. May he rest in peace.
My deepest sympathies on the loss of Kevin. He is at peace and the suffering is over. God bless him and keep him close to His heart. May he rest in peace.
Pop Dad, My heart aches at the fact that you’re gone and the void that your absence will create in all of our lives life. You created such a beautiful family and I especially want to thank you for raising such an incredible woman I get to call my best friend. I will take very good care of Brea and be there for her always. I finally got the chance to meet the other O’Donnell kids after 15 years and I gotta say Pop Dad…Ya did good! I will always cherish the memories of the times we spent together and the wisdom you shared with me. Rest in paradise with eternal love. Love, Coco
Oh, Kevin… I don’t know what we’re going to do now that you’re gone from us. We have so much history and so many stories that can’t be conveyed in a few paragraphs (or hours… or days… or YEARS!). We already miss you beyond words and take comfort in the fact that your best buddy Seamus is with you again.
All of our condolences to Amy, Terri, Kevin, Bree, Lexy, and Melissa, as well as Karen, Kathy, George, Eileen, and Maureen. We truly share in your grief.
Sorry for your loss
Prayers offered
RIP Kevin
Susan Martin and Cormac
Very sorry to hear about the passing of Kevin.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time.
May he rest in peace
From the Mehigan family, Cork, Ireland
So sorry to hear about the loss of your father. After reading the obituary, I could tell he was a special son, husband, father and grandfather.
May His Memory Be Eternal.
God Bless you and your entire extended family.
Was so sorry to read of Kevin’s passing. Have lots of nice memories of growing up in Mt. Carmel w/the entire O’Donnell family; (still think of your mom, wonder how she managed to accomplish all that she did). Sending sympathy to each of you, at this sad time,
in the loss of Kevin.
Pericles
Gonna miss you Brother! I wish we had more time together. SemperFi
Miss you & love you always!
~Your #1 girl
You will forever be honored and remembered.
Mette