John Francis O’Donnell
In Loving Memory
July 25, 1949 – August 29, 2023
We fondly remember John “Spike” O’Donnell as a proud, dedicated, and fiercely loyal husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle—and as an indelible patriarch. He leaves behind his wife, MaryAnne; his adult children, Pete and Katie; his daughter-in-law, Sarah Strole, and grandson, Griffin; and his dog, Rockie.
We appreciate and admire his 32-year career in law enforcement, and celebrate his life as an avid outdoorsman. John was known as a man of great and many deep-running friendships, a lover of history and integrity, and as a generous, decisive, and fearless leader with uncompromising values.
Spike was the person anyone could call for guidance, a helping hand, or a favor, whether it was for a criminal case, a family member or friend-of-a-friend in need, or just a backyard party. Even as a figure who believed fervently in the power of self-sufficiency, John lived for others. His legacy lives on in the exponential number of individuals, families, and institutions he touched.
Family Life
John Francis O’Donnell was born to Lorraine and John “Jack” O’Donnell in Yonkers, New York, on July 25, 1949, and was baptized as a member of the Catholic faith.
The eldest of five children, he is survived by his siblings Linda Whelan (m. John Whelan), Patricia Breen (m. Michael Breen), Michael O’Donnell (m. Carla O’Donnell), and Ret. Navy Commander Brian O’Donnell (m. Debbie O’Donnell). In addition, he took great joy in his 11 nieces and nephews and 9 grand-nieces and -nephews.
John attended St. Bartholomew’s grade school in Yonkers before graduating from Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx. During his time at Fordham University, he captained the varsity football team and won the title of MVP for the 1972 to 1973 season.
In 1973, John married MaryAnne (then Luchka) at Fordham University chapel. May of 2023 marked John and MaryAnne’s 50th wedding anniversary.
Eventually settling close to home in the Crestwood neighborhood of Yonkers, John and MaryAnne raised their family within the Annunciation Church and school community. Spike was proud to later enroll Pete at Fordham Preparatory School and Katie at The Ursuline School, and was ecstatic to see them graduate from the Catholic University of America and Loyola University Maryland, respectively.
Career
John began his law enforcement career with the Conrail police force in 1974, before joining the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office as a criminal investigator in 1978.
He would go on to serve under three DA administrations, across Economic Crimes, Narcotics Investigations, Organized Crimes, and Homicide. Among his achievements were contributing as a key investigator in the infamous Durst triple-homicide case (along with the subsequent HBO documentary series The Jinx), training hundreds of personnel as a firearms instructor, and serving three terms as President and Vice President of the Police Benevolent Association of Westchester County (PBA).
John retired in 2006 as a Senior Criminal Investigator, having impacted countless colleagues at all levels of their careers as well as a sprawling network of collaborators, from the New York state police to his own teams that he led on the ground. In retirement, he continued to enthusiastically champion and help further the careers of his family members and others he was closely connected to.
Sporting
For most of his life and then in retirement, John passionately lived out his love of the outdoors, challenging physical activity, and adventure. He advanced to become an expert skier after picking up the sport as a young adult in the ’70s, and skied primarily at his beloved home mountain, Killington, where he briefly worked post-retirement and near where he and MaryAnne owned a home in Chittenden, Vermont.
“The ski house” was known as a destination for constant guests, a roaring fire in the wood-burning stove, and laughter and joyful memories around the dining table. When he wasn’t cutting wood, shoveling massive snow piles, or mountain biking, John liked to make pancakes with local Vermont maple syrup and blueberries from the bush that grew beside the house.
Beyond Killington and Stowe, Vermont, John’s love of skiing took him to countless mountains “out west,” from western Canada’s Red Rocks and Grey Rocks to Jackson Hole and Kicking Horse. That’s when he wasn’t jumping out of Chinook helicopters in Alaska or climbing New Hampshire’s Mount Washington with his skis and gear on his back…
John’s other great passion was rifle and bow hunting. A conscientious conservationist, he pursued deer and turkey seasonally in the Catskills and beyond. Seeking out caribou, moose, elk, and bear brought him to Colorado, Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, and even a couple hundred miles from the Arctic Circle. In the summer, he enjoyed fishing and boating on Long Island Sound with the best of friends.
Leisure
Spike loved to grill, entertain, tell big stories, and reminisce. He often looked back fondly on parties filled with family and friends on Kenilworth Road in Yonkers, where he and his siblings grew up. He carried out the same “all are welcome” spirit at PBA picnics at Kingsland Point Park and at Killington parking-lot tailgates and pig roasts. His favorite holiday to host was Christmas Eve in Crestwood—nothing made him more proud or fulfilled than seeing the whole family crowded together, happy and healthy, eating and drinking and enjoying each other’s company.
At home, Spike enjoyed cooking for guests and special occasions, from steak, stew, lamb, or a pork roast with fried apples, to white or blue fish “francese.” And, of course, mashed potatoes always. He happily indulged in a Labatt Blue, a celebratory shot of Irish whiskey, or a glass of Malbec, and he never said no to dessert for the table, an after-dinner Sambuca and espresso, or ice cream. His daily routine included his favorite Barry’s Irish tea and steel-cut Irish oats.
When he wasn’t watching the New York Jets or listening to WFUV or the Yankees on the radio, John loved country music, ’60s and ’70s southern rock, bluegrass, and folk rock. Not surprisingly, he owned several motorcycles throughout his life (in addition to his lineup of XL pickup trucks), and finally was able to spend time riding his prize Harley Davidson in retirement.
Retirement also provided the opportunity to travel with MaryAnne and friends on cruises to Alaska as well as Ireland, Scotland, and Normandy in France. He also took time to enjoy Bermuda and Turks and Caicos, as well as the family’s intergenerational vacation gathering place of Long Beach Island, New Jersey.
Back home in Yonkers, he spent his days accompanied by his beloved golden retrievers, in succession: Sugar, Blue, and Rockie.
Final Rest
John battled and survived neck-and-throat cancer in 2015. He was called peacefully to rest on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at the age of 74, surrounded by family at home.
We will remember him always, and do what we can to honor his profound, richly lived life.
In Remembrance
In honor of John’s life and memory, we greatly appreciate those who keep his soul and family members in your prayers.
If moved to and in lieu of flowers, please consider donating in John’s name to one of the following organizations:
Jansen Hospice & Palliative Care Jansenhospice.org
Westchester County Police Benevolent Association Pbawcpd.org
Tunnels to Towers Foundation t2t.org
Condolences(19)-
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Previous Poole, Deirdre
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pat abatangelo family says
August 31, 2023 at 12:48 pmSorry for your loss.
Vicky Knapp says
August 31, 2023 at 12:54 pmWhat can I say. I will hold all our fun days and nights in my heart for all the days of my life. My Joe has his buddy by his side now. My deepest sympathy to Maryann, Katie and PJ and family. He might be gone but for sure he will NEVER BE FORGOTTEN !???
Mike Duffy says
August 31, 2023 at 1:46 pmBig John, you were always a solid guy and a great cop. Enjoyed the years together whether working, skiing or socializing. RIP. Condolences to Mary Ann, Michael and all of your family.
Kevin & Eileen Farney says
August 31, 2023 at 8:40 pmJohn came by a few times to visit with Kev and it always made Kev smile when they talked about their “D.A.” years and hunting trips. It meant so much to us both. He was also one of the guys who gave a reference for our son Jay before he got his job as a NY State Trooper. Jay is in his 20th year already. Time sure flies. Remember when Kev and John made 20! These are just a few of the fond memories we have of John. Mary Ann and family, Kev and I are wishing you peace and strength during this difficult time. RIP John.
Mary Tomkins says
September 1, 2023 at 5:36 amMaryann, Katie, PJ and family, My sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies. John was a wonderful friend and neighbour. I so enjoyed our chats while Blue Boy rolled in the garden. I will always treasure my memories of time spent in such wonderful company. May he Rest in Eternal Peace. Sending our prayers, you are all very much in our thoughts.
Stan Michael says
September 1, 2023 at 9:11 amMaryann and family my deepest condolences for your loss. John was a good friend during our years playing football at Fordham. Our lives drifted apart but the memories linger. May he rest in peace in God’s great love.
Pete Martin says
September 1, 2023 at 1:20 pmCondolences to The O’Donnell family on the passing of John (Spike) O’Donnell. Spike was a great friend and teammate at Cardinal Hayes and Fordham U. . He was loyal,, a great public servant and a patriotic American God Bless the O’Donnells! Pete Martin, Spike’s Hayes and Fordham teammates and All the Blasters
Rachel Donnelly says
September 1, 2023 at 2:15 pmI met John over 50 years ago, right before I met my husband. We had many fun times together! John was always a good friend to Bob when he was very sick, and paid many visits. They loved working together, and laughed through all the craziness. There are so many of these good guys up in heaven!! With God’s help, they will take care of each other! Prayers for Maryanne and his wonderful family!
Carmen Esteves says
September 1, 2023 at 5:52 pmMrs. O’Donnell, I’m sorry for your loss! My deepest condolences to you and your family. May he continues to rest in peace ????
Your former student Carmen Esteves and Family
Paul Hood says
September 1, 2023 at 9:26 pmMy condolences to the O’Donnell family. Spike was a good man and a good friend. I was in Police Supervisory school with him and worked with him on several cases. I held him in high regard because he was a real standup guy and I appreciated our friendship. I have our class picture on my basement wall. Rest in peace my friend!
Paul Hood
Nick Doyle says
September 3, 2023 at 2:07 pmWith love and deepest sympathy to all of the O’Donnell family!
Spike was an altar boy at our Wedding almost 63 years ago and we watched him grow into a fine man with a loving family. He will be missed by all.
With love, Nick & Susan Doyle and the Doyle family.
Michael NMN Slivka says
September 3, 2023 at 3:27 pmMike & Carol Slivka
We are sorry for your loss. Memories of good times during Hunting season for many years..
Peter Slivka says
September 4, 2023 at 9:03 amMy Dear Brother OD
We shared many adventures and great times together. You were always there for me no matter
what or when. Thanks for being my Usher, Police Partner and best friend .
My Katie and I will miss you forever.
Megan Bennett says
September 4, 2023 at 10:52 amUncle Spike, you have left behind a legacy of family first, pride in your work and community, generosity, and laughter to get through it all. We love you and will miss you dearly. Until we meet again <3 Megan, Nev, Charlie and Ronan Bennett
Beth & Jerry Sullivan says
September 4, 2023 at 10:05 pmWe’re sending all of our love, prayers & sympathy to all Spike’s family. So very many memories of wonderful times.
Patty Culleton says
September 4, 2023 at 8:41 pmMaryAnn, I am so sorry to hear of your husband’s passing. May the memories you hold of him bring smiles to your heart.
Fondly, Patty Culleton (YMA colleague)
Shari Pierce says
September 5, 2023 at 10:15 amMaryAnne & family, Ron and I are so very sorry for your loss. While I only met John on two occasions, I remember his warmth and kindness. (The first time was when he brought your then new puppy, Blue, to visit the school – he was so proud!) We hope that the many happy memories you have will bring you comfort. Love, Shari & Ron
Suzanne Volpe says
September 5, 2023 at 1:14 pmDear MaryAnne and family,
Please accept our condolences on John’s passing. He is a generous person who shared his ski house with us and shared a whiskey or two at Patrick’s pub. We will always think fondly of the time spent with him. Sincerely, Bob and Suzanne Volpe
Joan Lennon says
September 5, 2023 at 3:42 pmDear MaryAnne & family, I will always remember the fun we had in the Hamptons. I met Ed Lennon when he was with John (Spike) in a bar called OTI Oliver Twist Inn. I married Ed 2 yrs later. John was a great and good friend with Ed. I’m sure they will meet up in Heaven. Have a beer for old time sake. Warm wishes. Joanie. ??
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