Richard O'Donnell
Richard O'Donnell
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Richard O'Donnell Obituary
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April 1951 – October 2025
Richard O'Donnell, 74, passed away in his home surrounded by his loving family on October 8, 2025 following a courageous battle with stroke-related health complications.
Born in April 1951, Richard grew up in Arthursburg within the Hudson Valley region of New York. After graduating from Arlington High School and attending community college, he pursued his passion for aviation by studying aviation technology. Richard went on to study and teach as a flight instructor at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
He later returned to the Hudson Valley, where he joyfully married Maureen O'Donnell and together, they raised three children - Caitlin, Bridget & Sean. Richard eventually retired from a successful and impactful career in the nuclear power industry at Indian Point Energy Center.
A lifelong learner and creative thinker, Richard had an enduring passion for science, mathematics, electronics, design, and precision fabrication. He believed deeply in the transformative power of knowledge and was always ready to help others overcome challenges. Whether something seemed impossible or out of reach, Richard found time to guide, teach, and inspire those around him.
Motorsports were another of Richard's great loves. His legacy includes helping build and wire countless race cars that set records at legendary tracks from Lime Rock to Pikes Peak.
Richard's life was defined by curiosity, generosity, and a drive to uplift others. His spirit lives on in the minds he shaped, the creations he built, and the family he cherished.
Richard is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to either American Stroke Association www.stroke.org Engineering for US All https://e4usa.org/donate
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371 Hooker Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
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