Milwaukee, Wisconsin
O’Donnell, William F.
Passed away at his home Sunday, September 5, 2004 at the age of 82. He was surrounded by his loving family as he ended a year-long battle with cancer.
Preceded in death by his parents James and Margaret and brother Lawrence. Loving husband of Norma (nee Schnell). Loving father of Timothy, Kathleen (Amir), Bridget, Margaret (Jeff), Patrick (Ruth), Hugh (DawnMarie), Dennis (Gina) and Maureen (Jason). Grandfather of Devin, Brianna, Michael, James, Christian and Sophia. Further survived by his brother James and sister Marion and many deeply loved family members and friends.
Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, September 9, 2004 at 12 Noon at GESU CHURCH (12th and West Wisconsin Avenue). Visitation Thursday at the Church from 9 AM until time of Mass. Free off street parking will be available at the Marquette University lots located at the northeast corner of 13th and Wells Streets and at 16th Street between Wells Street and Wisconsin Avenue. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery.
Mr. O’Donnell served the people of Milwaukee County for 40 years including three consecutive terms as Milwaukee County Executive. He brought an uncommon sense of dignity and honor to every public office he held. He earned and maintained a reputation as an honest politician, known for his uncompromising integrity and strong work ethic. He never courted public interest groups, so that none would impact his policies. He kept a publicly listed home phone number and an “open door policy” – both at work and at home. He never turned his back on the people he served, taking calls and seeing people at all hours of the day and night. Mr. O’Donnell and his wife Norma raised eight children in a strong Catholic tradition, and taught them through example what it meant to live a life dedicated to serving the needs of others.
Special thanks to Mr. O’Donnell’s physician Jacob Frick, M.D. Heartfelt thanks to Dariusz “Victor” Wiktor for his kind and compassionate support during the final days of home hospice care. The family extends it’s most loving thanks to daughter Bridget who personally sacrificed much to see to her father’s and mother’s every comfort during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to Gesu Church or St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church appreciated.
BRETT FUNERAL HOME 414-342-0692
My deepest sympathy to your family on the passing of your father. My mother was a cousin of your father, her name was Margaret Lahmann (O'Donnell). Your father was at my mother's funeral. I now live in Upper Michigan and I am not able to attend in person. I will always keep him in my prayers.
Susan Corey and family
Susan Corey
September 08, 2004 | Daggett, MI
Our deepest sympathy to your family on the passing of your father. His years of service to the community and citizens of Milwaukee County will never be forgotten. It is always hard to lose a loved one, but know that he is no longer suffering and he is at peace and finding comfort in the hands of the Lord.
Mark & Linda Woelfel
September 08, 2004 | Lexington, KY
Offering our deepest sympathies at this time.
The Staff of Brett Funeral Home
September 07, 2004 | Milwaukee, WI
