Casey O' Donnell

Casey “Top Forty” O’Donnell, 44, of Palm Coast, Florida, rode his last perfect wave to eternity on September 2, 2023. He was born May 18, 1979, in Boulder, Colorado.

Casey’s soul was always loving, always fearless, and always riding a wave to the peak, not worried which way it might take him. He was a golden boy who grew into a charismatic, courageous man who endured many tragedies and health challenges in his life but never gave up trying to surmount them. Casey was by no means a saint in his youth, getting in plenty of sticky situations (and charming his way out of them as well), but as his late stepfather, John Wicker, said in a speech at Casey’s wedding, & quote,” I have been a bad, bad boy, but I am a good, good man.” Casey strove to follow that example despite many setbacks and roadblocks in his life.

Casey excelled at restaurant management, for a time in one of the busiest restaurants in Flagler Beach. Madden grew up there watching his dad in action. He pursued his interest in amateur stunt work everywhere he went. He was known for his adventurous spirit and his ability to live his life the same way he surfed, charging every wave that came his way without fear.

Casey loved surfing, break dancing, music, fishing, and horticulture. He found solace and joy in these activities, which allowed him to connect with nature and hang with his friends. He was extremely generous and would give you his last dime and believed in always helping others. Casey was very patient with people and lent an ear for his loved ones and others.

Casey loved his family unconditionally and will be deeply missed by his loved ones. He is survived by the joy of his life, his beloved son, Madden O’Donnell and Madden’s wonderful mother and dear friend Tara; his mother, Chris Wicker; his father Brian and stepmother, Beth O’Donnell; his brother Lake O’Donnell and his wife Natanya; his nieces, Lana Rose & Emilia Mae; his loving and devoted fiancé Erin, that Casey passionately referred to as “his Angel” and their beautiful Golden Retriever Layla, who is totally bereft; His close-knit group of friends, he affectionately called “his boys”, and many, many relatives and friends. They will forever cherish the memories they made with Casey and the impact he had on their lives.

A paddle-out ceremony will be held on September 23, 2023, to honor Casey’s life, at Bay Drive Park, Flagler County, FL,32137,11am-4pm. Paddle out at noon, meet and greet after that. Beach Park is totally casual, so bring bathing suits and surfboards. Please try and carpool, parking is limited, due to beach renourishment. There is parking at Marineland, but it’s a hike away.

It will be a time for family, friends and loved ones to come together, pay their respects, and remember the adventurous and loving nature of Casey “Top 40” O’Donnell. May we find the strength to live life as fully, cherishing every moment as Casey did before leaving this earth far too soon.

Please join us in celebrating Casey’s life and sharing stories about our beautiful, beloved golden boy, who is no longer in pain, finally at peace and at long last free to fly.

Donations can be made to your local Surfrider Chapter.