Thomas Joseph O’Donnell Jr.

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we celebrate the life of Thomas J. O'Donnell, Jr. who passed away peacefully on October 4, 2024, at the age of 85. Born on January 26, 1939, Tom lived a full and joyful life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.
As a young boy, Tom once considered becoming a priest, but life had other plans for him. He was a man who embraced both life's challenges and its simple pleasures. Tom began his working life in the steel mills while continuing his education in trade school and at the University Detroit. However, a twist of fate changed his path when he found a business card behind the refrigerator, which led to an opportunity in the tool and die department at the Ford Motor Company Rouge plant. From there, his hard work and dedication allowed him to rise through the ranks, eventually becoming a Project Coordinator for experimental transmissions at the Ford Livonia Plant. He proudly retired in December of 1996, reflecting a fulfilling 30-year career with Ford.
Tom met the love of his life, Joyce, in ninth grade, and over time they formed a deep bond. In 1957 They both graduated from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic High School in River Rouge, Michigan. They attended many dances and parties together before marrying on February 13, 1960, the day before Valentine's Day. Together, they shared over six decades of love, adventure, and, as they always said, "a lot of fun."
In 1970, Tom and Joyce embarked on a two-year journey of renovating and building their dream lakefront home. Finally, in 1972, they moved from Trenton to Howell, Michigan, into what would become Tom's castle. Pa's Irish Landing as he referred to it was more than just a place to live-it was the heart of countless family gatherings, celebrations, and moments of joy. It was here that Tom thrived, hosting lively family parties filled with his good-natured humor and warmth.
Pa's love for his family was the cornerstone of his life. Every summer, Tom looked forward to camping trips with his family, creating lasting memories around the campfire. These trips were filled with laughter, storytelling, and the simple joy of spending time together in nature. He also took on the task of building an even bigger and better Christmas village every year, delighting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren with each new addition.
Tom also found joy in life's quieter moments-whether piecing together puzzles and trading them with family, enjoying a cup of coffee on his porch, or passing on his love for sports, especially Hockey, Football and Baseball, to his children. A lover of card games, Tom especially enjoyed playing euchre and poker. He loved teaching the game to others, sharing not just the rules, but the strategy and fun of each hand. He never missed watching the Little League World Series each summer and took great pride in teaching his kids and grandkids the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. He was always ready to offer advice or lend a hand, and his family knew they could count on him for both wisdom and a hearty laugh.
His family was the center of his world, and he spent countless hours helping his children and grandchildren with home projects, offering guidance and support every step of the way. Tom's easy going nature, sharp wit, and readiness to help were constants in the lives of those he loved.
Whenever anyone left his house, they were sent off with his favorite words of wisdom: "Watch out for the other guy." Those words will continue to echo in the hearts of his family, reminding them of his deep love and care.
Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Joyce O'Donnell, and their children: Thomas III, Patricia (Harold Heilner), Jill (Rick Hanifan), Gary (Sherry), Bonnie, Dennis (Karen), and Terri (Tim Orlando). He was the proud grandfather of 20 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Bill. Tom was preceded in death by his sisters: Catherine, Marie, and Ruthann.
Tom's life was a testament to the importance of family, love, laughter, and living life to the fullest. Though his presence will be missed, his spirit will live on in the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him.
A celebration of Tom's life will be held 10:30AM Friday, October 18, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Howell, with visitation at 9:30AM at the church.