Michael R. O'Donnell Obituary (1948 - 2020)

Michael Richard O'Donnell, 72, of Greenwich, New York passed away on December 24th, 2020. He was born April 4th, 1948 in Brooklyn, New York to the late Charles and Florence O'Donnell. In 1983 Mr. O'Donnell married Marlene Posa in East Northport, New York. He served a tour of duty in the United States Army, serving in Germany during the Vietnam War. He then served a distinguished career as a New York State Trooper. For just over 30 years he served with great pride. He was assigned to the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. Trooper O'Donnell succumbed from a 9/11-related cancer stemming from his official deployment with the New York State Police as a first responder on September 11, 2001, supporting the rescue and recovery operation at Ground Zero. Michael was a natural problem solver, always working on new projects around the house and helping friends and family with their own various projects. Since retiring, Michael lived life to the fullest through his hobbies and simple pleasures. Woodworking, good food and wine, beautiful views of the Batten Kill, traveling with his wife, and spending time with his family and friends. He will be missed greatly by those who knew and loved him. He is survived by his wife of 37 years Marlene O'Donnell, his brother Charles (Tim), his children Casey O'Donnell (Rita) and Mallory Donnelly (Matthias), and his beloved grandchildren Scarlett, Olivia, and Maxillae. Due to COVID-19 restrictions funeral services will be postponed until the spring, where he will be interred in the Saratoga National Cemetery with full military honors. Memorials may be made to the Greenwich Fire Department, 60 Hill Street Greenwich NY 12834, or the Greenwich Interfaith Van Go Program, PO Box 124, Greenwich, NY 12834. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Flynn Bros. Inc. Funeral Home, 80 Main St, Greenwich, NY, 12834. Online condolences and messages to the family may be made at www.flynnbrosinc.com.