Patrick Joseph O'Donnell

Patrick passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025. He leaves behind his loving wife Maryann, and their beautiful children Caroline and Ryan.

Patrick J. O’Donnell was born on January 19, 1953, in Hollis Queens, NYC. From a young age, Patrick exhibited a strong sense of duty and patriotism, inspired by his family's long history of military service. As a child, he returned to his parents’ hometown of Brosna, County Kerry, Ireland with his siblings where he attended National School in Brosna before returning to the United States in 1963. He excelled in academics, graduating from Mater Christi H.S. in 1970 where he was a member of the school’s swim team. Patrick went on to attend St. John’s University where he successfully completed ROTC and graduated with a B.S. and MBA. It was also where he met his college sweetheart and future wife Maryann and together they began their life journey.

Patrick was a devoted husband and father. He married Maryann, in 1976, and together they raised two beautiful children, Caroline and Ryan. His family was the cornerstone of his life, providing him with unwavering support and love throughout his military career and in life.  Maryann adored Patrick and the kids, spending many hours taking care of the entire family through both happy and difficult times.  Patrick is pre-deceased by his parents Patrick Sr. (Paddy) and Mary.  His loss is deeply felt by his brothers and sisters, Edward (Christine), John (Dorthy Ann), Maura (Scott), Kevin and Margaret. Dearly missed by all his nieces and nephew, Ciara, Matthew, Meghan, Heather, Ruby and Ginger.

Patrick's military career spanned over three decades, during which he served his country with unwavering dedication and valor. He began his journey as a second lieutenant in the United States Army, rising to the rank of Colonel due to his exceptional leadership skills and tactical acumen.

He was very proud of his father’s accomplishments in World War II, retracing some of Paddy’s  steps through France and Belgium during the Battle of the Bulge with his army buddies in 2011.  Newsday featured the group’s pilgrimage as a front page story on Memorial Day 2012. O'Donnell, Sr. was with the 33rd Engineers at Metz, St. Vith and the Rhine.

His legacy is one of honor, service, and dedication. He will be remembered not only for his military achievements but also for his compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to his family and community. He was especially proud of his involvement with AFRFAF whose mission is to support the families of service men and woman who struggled financially while their family member was on active deployment. His life serves as an inspiration to all who knew him, and his contributions to his country will never be forgotten.

A funeral service with full military honors will be held at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Coram, NY.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Developmental Disabilities Institute, an organization close to Patrick and Maryann’s hearts.

As we bid farewell to a true American hero, we take solace in the knowledge that his legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all those he touched. Rest in peace, Patrick, Ar dheis Dé go raibh a ainm dilis. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

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