Patrick O'Donnell

1974 - 2023

Patrick O'Donnell
April 13, 2023
Patrick Mulcahy O'Donnell, 49, of East Haven, Connecticut, beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, and friend, set sail on Thursday, April 13, 2023, departing this fleeting earth for his next great adventure. Patrick, affectionately known as "Aquaman", occasionally Pakrick, or Crickcrak, to some, was born on January 23, 1974 to Charles III and Maureen O'Donnell in Buffalo, NY. From an early age, Patrick possessed a rare combination of qualities that made him stand out as one of those unique souls that seemed to be born with the wisdom and character most of us spend a lifetime learning. Selfless, kind, bright, complex, funny, caring, warm, generous, composed, thoughtful, disciplined, and strong - Patrick embodied these virtues throughout his life, touching the lives of all those fortunate enough to know him. Patrick's childhood in Monroe, Connecticut, where he explored, laughed, and made memories with his five brothers and two sisters, laid the foundation for a life filled with accomplishments and adventures. As an honors student and varsity athlete at St. Joseph High School, Patrick's talent and determination were evident from the start. He went on to earn his degree in electrical engineering from UConn, and later completed a Master's in Computer Science from the University of New Haven. Patrick's career was diverse and distinguished. He found success as a program trader for UBS before leaving the financial industry to serve his community by teaching in Connecticut schools. As a teacher, Patrick also served as a swim coach, where he not only expanded the swimming program at Shelton High School, but also transformed the lives of his athletes, helping them grow both athletically and personally. Patrick's entrepreneurial spirit led him to form Post Road Software, a business that combined his engineering expertise, business acumen, and commitment to his community by offering internships to Computer Science students while serving international businesses. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Patrick lived life to the fullest, embracing adventure and exploring the world. He was an accomplished athlete, with a love for skiing in Switzerland, wakeboard flips, marathons, and triathlons. He sailed "The Christina' from Connecticut to the Bahamas with his brothers, swam across the Sound, and took on challenges with unwavering passion. Patrick relished the beauty (and food!) of diverse cultures. He cherished his Taiwanese family, and embraced their culture and traditions as his own. As an involved member of the Federation of World Peace and Love, Patrick worked alongside his wife, MingLun, to promote peace and conscience worldwide. Patrick could find the absolute absurdity in everyday life. Anywhere, anytime, a spot next to Patrick guaranteed one a unique glimpse into the deeply insightful and always on-the-money observations that he could quietly dole out. Always seeing the humor, always finding the fun, he laughed from the deepest heart and shared who he was without reservation. Patrick's love for his family and friends was palpable. He adored his wife, Dr. MingLun Lee, who was by his side until his passing. He was a devoted son to his mother, Maureen Ann (Spencer) O'Donnell, and a caring and proud brother to his seven siblings and their families, with whom he recently shared a beautiful Easter day: Charles IV and Catherine O'Donnell of Shelton, Eileen O'Donnell and Anthony Skrip of Branford, Daniel and Michelle O'Donnell of Sandy Hook, Michael and Corrie O'Donnell of Fairfield, Francis and Jasmin O'Donnell of Stamford, Casey and Stephanie O'Donnell of Greenwich, and Irene and Jeffrey Baker of Guilford. He was also an adoring uncle to his 23 nieces and nephews. He will be missed by all, including his cats, Earnest Shackelton and Grumpy Jenkins. He was predeceased by his father, Charles Anthony O'Donnell, III. Patrick's memory will be held closely by all who knew him. His brilliance, unique sense of humor, and generosity will be remembered often. Patrick Mulcahy O'Donnell leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and fortitude that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have him in their lives. He is already so deeply missed. Friends and family are invited to attend a Funeral Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, April 21st at 11:00 a.m. by meeting directly at St. Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Rd., Newtown, CT, and to gather afterwards for a celebration of Patrick's life from 12:30 - 4:30 at the home of Daniel O'Donnell, at 12 Bridge End Farm Lane in Sandy Hook, CT. Interment will be private. Friends are invited to call at a Wake on Thursday, April 20th, from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the home of Daniel O'Donnell, at 12 Bridge End Farm Lane in Sandy Hook, CT. Flowers may be sent to the home of Daniel O'Donnell, 12 Bridge End Farm Lane in Sandy Hook, CT. For more information or to share a message of condolence, visit www.wrmcdonaldfuneralhome.com .