Thomas M. O'Donnell

Thomas M. O'Donnell obituary, Joliet, IL

Thomas M. O'Donnell

Thomas O'Donnell Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory - Morris Chapel on Sep. 19, 2024.
Obituary of Thomas M. O'Donnell
Thomas Michael O'Donnell, age 81, formerly of Minooka, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at the Serenity Estates of Morris with his loving wife by his side. Tom was born in Ottawa, IL on May 23, 1943, the fourth child of five to the late Richard and Mary Ellen (nee Walsh) O'Donnell. Tom worked many different jobs throughout his life, but he considered his greatest accomplishment to be, learning to fly helicopters. Other than spending time with his wife Kathy, he also enjoyed flat-track motorcycle racing and ice racing.
Tom and his wife Kathy Serena have been together for nearly 50 years. He is survived by his son, Jody (Sterling) O'Donnell of Dallas, TX; his step-son, Don (Kim) Schure of Plainfield; his grandchildren, Reese and Drake O'Donnell, and Anna, Jordan and Casey Schure; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Tom is preceded in death by his beloved son, Tommy (1984); as well as his parents and siblings.
As it was Tom's wish, cremation rites have been accorded, and Tom's earthly remains will be laid to rest alongside family at a later date.
Arrangements entrusted to the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home in Morris. For information, please call 815-942-5040 or visit his Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Thomas's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Thomas O'Donnell's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Thomas O'Donnell's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?