Celebrating the life of James "Jimmy" Lee O'Donnell
Be the first to share your favorite memory, photo or story of
James "Jimmy".
This memorial page is dedicated for family, friends and future generations to celebrate
the life of their loved one.
We ask on behalf of the family that you keep your comments uplifting and appropriate
to help all who come here to find comfort and healing.
Obituary for James "Jimmy" Lee O'Donnell
Jimmy Lee ODonnell passed away peacefully due to respiratory illness at Sacred Heart Medical Center at Springfield, OR. with family Jamie ODonnell, Catherine Jobe and Nancy Gilkey close by his side. Jim lived in Gold Beach, OR with his companion Nancy Gilkey since 2009. Jim had a most amazing and beautiful outlook on life and always saw the best in everything and everyone around him each and every day. He loved looking at everything with an open mind and great curiosity he truly was an Inspiration to us all and will greatly be missed by those who loved him dearly. Jim was born in Anacortes, WA. On August 24, 1937 to Joe O'Donnell and Deana Andrews; he grew up in the Kent, Auburn Washington area and attended Kent-Meridian school. Jim spent a great many years working as a drywall taper in construction until his retirement in 1995; he was one of the best of his trade. Jim served in the United States Navy from March 18th 1955 and was honorably discharged on March 19th 1963. He served on many naval ships around the world including the USS Dixie and USS Milany. He was a man of the world and has been around it a few times. His passions were gold panning and mining, tinkering with his radiation detection equipment contemplating the Universe around us. Meeting new people and making friends was easy for Jim. He had so many interesting and wonderful stories and facts of the world that he always shared with his family over the years. He was loved and adored by family and friends alike. Jim is survived by his oldest son Mike ODonnell of Vallejo, CA with three grandchildren, Jillian, Jamie, and Jenny, great grandchildren Mikey and Addy; son Joe O'Donnell of Midland, TX with grandkids, Kelly and Chris, great grandchild Hannah. Jim also has a grandson Cameron in Cameron Park, CA of his daughter Kelly whom he is now at peace with in the heavens above. Siblings brother Joe ODonnell of Kent WA; brother Terry ODonnell of Oroville, WA; sister Jacky Stracke of Puyallup, WA; sister Joan Rogers of Centralia, WA. Services will be held at Rogue River Cemetery 28885 Hunter Creek Loop in Gold Beach OR. 97444 on Friday March 14th at 2:00pm.
Redwood Memorial Chapel is assisting the family. Condolences may be expressed online at www.redwoodmemorial.net.