Edward Joseph Donnelly

In Loving Memory of Edward "Ed" Donnelly
Edward "Ed" Donnelly was born in Darby, Pennsylvania, just outside of Philadelphia, to his
loving parents, Ed and Maryanne Donnelly. The oldest of four siblings, Ed grew up alongside his
brothers, John and Phil, and his sister, Marianne, who all looked up to him as a natural leader
and big brother. Due to his father's work in the aerospace industry, Ed's childhood was shaped
by moves between Philadelphia and Daytona Beach, Florida, experiences that helped form his
adaptability, curiosity, and strong work ethic.
Entrepreneurial from a young age, Ed was never afraid of hard work or creative opportunity. As a teen in Daytona Beach, he sold sunscreen door to door and even helped repossess cars, an experience that later earned him the affectionate nickname "Repo Man" among close friends. These early ventures were just the beginning of a lifelong career defined by initiative, grit, and integrity.
Ed began his professional life in construction with the DeBartolo Company in Youngstown, Ohio,
before eventually heading west. In San Francisco, he worked with the Shorenstein Company
and William Wilson and Associates, where he continued to build his career and, just as
importantly, lifelong friendships. His colleagues respected his authenticity, dedication, and
steady presence. He understood the importance of community and proudly served on the
boards of City of Hope and Rebuilding Together. Ed was deeply connected to his family and friends and had a wonderful sense of humor, telling bad dad jokes every chance he had. Ed married Carol in 2000, and they soon moved to San Carlos, where they built lasting friendships and hosted countless neighborhood gatherings. Ed and Carol shared a love for the ocean, spending many weekends along the coast and enjoying their annual trips to Poipu Beach in Kauai, where they soaked up the sun and time together, even if, as the family likes to joke, Ed rarely ventured into the water, insisting it was far too chilly compared to Florida waters. An avid golfer, Ed played weekly with his golf buddies for many years, a ritual that culminated in an annual club championship tournament. His 2012 win remained a source of good-natured bragging rights. He was a lifelong baseball fan and loved the San Francisco Giants, holding season tickets for many years and creating countless family memories during outings at the ballpark. He also loved Sunday football, cheering on his favorite teams, the Miami Dolphins, the Philadelphia Eagles, and of course the San Francisco 49ers. For years, he took part in Thanksgiving football games with his neighborhood friends, traditions filled with laughter and camaraderie.
Above all else, Ed was a loving husband and father. He spent countless hours coaching,
cheering, and supporting his children in their many sports and activities, always present and all
in. His love showed up in consistency, encouragement, and unwavering support for Eddie, Gina,
Nat, and Char. He was incredibly proud of his kids and his grandchildren.
Ed is survived by his devoted wife of 25 years, Carol; his children Eddie Donnelly, Gina Shoemaker (John), Natalie Donnelly, and Charlotte Donnelly; his five grandchildren, Sophia, Henry, Johnny, Eddie, and Ruby Shoemaker; his brother Phil Donnelly (Mary Anne); his sister Marianne Nardandrea (Mike); his mother in law, Sally Knorp; his first wife, Sue Donnelly; his sister in law, Mary Alice Donnelly; his brother in law Scott Knorp (Karin); and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Maryanne Donnelly, and his brother John.
Ed lived a life rooted in family, friendship, and hard work. He will be deeply missed and forever
remembered with love, gratitude, and his twinkling blue eyes full of laughter.
Donations can be made in Edward's name to the Lucille Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford.