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John E. O’Donnell
John E. O’Donnell passed away Aug. 30, 2017 in Chandler, AZ. He was born Dec. 22, 1923 in Phoenix. His parents were John R. and Grace Eberly. He was an only child.
He grew up in Superior and married his childhood sweetheart, Barbara Stone Aug. 28, 1948 in Bakersfield, CA.
John was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 69 years, Barbara; and his parents, John and Grace O’Donnell. He is survived by his 11 children: John, Jim, Tom, Catherine, Tim, Lois, Pat, Michael, Mary Ann, Joe and Danny; 14 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
He was a philanthropist with many businesses and belonged to several service organizations. He inherited and owned the company that is now called The Mahoney Group until the 1980s.
John was a World War II Veteran.
He raised 11 children in Superior and Casa Grande. He never missed a game, diving meet, play or activity his children participated in throughout their school years. He was an avid fan of all of his children. He was a devout Catholic and received daily communion for over 50 years. He was inducted into the Order of the Holy Sepulchre in1989.
A Rosary and Mass will be held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church on Saturday, Sept. 9, beginning at 10 a.m. The church is located at 3550 E Knox Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85044. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014. Interment will take place in Fairview Cemetery in Superior.
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