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May 8, 1945—September 7, 2024 John Michael “Mike” O’Donell, 79, from Kelso, Washington passed away peacefully September 7, 2024 after a battle with cancer. Mike was born in Atlanta, Georgia to Charles and Martha O’Donell, he grew up experiencing life in several places as his family moved across the country due to his father’s career with Boeing. After he graduated high school in Great Falls, Montana he completed two years of Junior College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota before enlisting into the United States Air Force specializing as a F-4 Phantom Fighter mechanic and doing his Vietnam War tour in Thailand.
After six years serving his country, he was honorably discharged and reunited with his parents in Seattle, WA where he started his 36-year career with Burlington Northern. Mike also met and married his previous spouse and had two children together. After divorcing he met and fell in love with Susan.
They married and settled in the countryside of Kelso, WA where they lived happily for 35 years surrounded by family and friends. Mike is survived by his wife, Susan; son, Daniel; daughter, Jennifer and her husband, Scott; grandchildren: Gabriel and Allison stepdaughter, Shannon and her husband, Dennis and grandchild,Sophia. Mike will be remembered for the strong love he had for his family and friends.
His work ethic was unwavering, and so was his dedication to having a good time. Whether it was sharing a laugh, swapping old stories, or creating new memories, Mike had a way of making every moment special. A devoted fan of the Seahawks and Mariners, his true pride and joy were his favorite players, his grandson and granddaughter.
He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life—long neck Buds, country music, and spending time under the shade of the old sycamore tree. His laughter, wisdom, and kindness will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him. Mike’s spirit lives on through the values and love he instilled in his family, who will carry his memory forward with the same strength, loyalty, and heart that defined him.
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