Thomas Joseph O'Donnell

Thomas "Tom" Joseph O'Donnell of O'Fallon, MO passed away peacefully at home on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the age of 69, after a courageous two-and-a-half-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He was fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church.

Tom, a beloved and devoted husband, is survived by Patricia "Patty", his wife of 44 years. Their initial courtship was brief, as it was 'love at first sight', meeting on a blind date. He was a proud and loving father of his children, Erin O'Donnell (Vern Bachmann) and Michael O'Donnell (Jessica), and beloved grandfather to Dylan and Madelyn O'Donnell (Michael), as well as his granddaughter expected in January 2026 (Erin). He is also survived by his brother Jim O'Donnell (Trish) and sister Mary O'Donnell Morales (Alan Gardner). Tom was a dear "fun" Uncle, father-in-law, brother-in-law, nephew-in-law, cousin-in-law, and friend to many. Tom was preceded in death by his brother, Dan O'Donnell, and his parents, Raymond Vincent O'Donnell and Myrtle Mae O'Donnell.

Raised in Florissant, MO, Tom was part of the first graduating class of McCluer North High School in 1974 and went on to Southeast Missouri State University where he graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science in Education, majoring in Physical Education.

After graduating college, Tom was employed by the city of Florissant as their Recreation Specialist, of which his duties were the overseeing of all of the Florissant ball fields, which also included managing the schedule. Tom dedicated his next years to raising his children as a stay-at-home dad; one of his proudest roles. He went on to teach at Our Lady of Fatima School and St. Monica School where his humor, care, and enthusiasm left a lasting impact on countless students, many of whom fondly remember him as their favorite teacher. Tom coached and/ or managed his children's many CYC sports teams, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, softball, and baseball, finding great joy in being active on the sidelines. Tom enjoyed the sports and activities as member of the men's club at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Florissant, and even served a couple of years as president. In recent years, he enjoyed the friends, food, and activities (including playing Bocce ball) of the Senior Saints group at St. Joseph Parish - Cottleville.

After retiring from teaching, Tom worked at Lowe's, where his practical skills and easygoing nature made him a favorite among customers.

Tom had a passion for learning and a knack for sharing trivia and obscure facts- whether during trivia nights or casual conversations. He loved golfing, reading, watching sports, and honing his skills at the shooting range. Tom enjoyed time spent with friends and family. Known for his quick wit, sharp mind, and unique sense of humor, Tom had a gift for making people feel at ease. Tom was always smiling, and his joy was infectious. Strangers quickly became friends in his presence.

Tom will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing and loving him.

IN LIEU OF flowers, MASSES are preferred.

Donations in Tom's memory may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society - St. Joseph Cottleville or to:

Siteman Cancer Center supporting Pancreatic Cancer Research

MSC 1082-414-2555

1 Brookings Drive.

St. Louis, MO 63130

or online at siteman.wustl.edu/tribute. Please indicate the gift is in memory of Tom O'Donnell by writing a memo on your check.