Thomas Frank O’Donnell, age 81, passed away on Oct. 23, 2021, after a long illness, surrounded by his family. Tom was born in Mamaroneck, N.Y., the son of Francis J. and Geraldine M. (Skinner) O’Donnell. During his childhood, he and his sister spent many hours amongst flowers and in the fields of The Friendly Elms Greenhouses owned by his grandfather, Thomas Skinner.
After graduating from Mamaroneck High School, he served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Lester from 1958-1962. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Clarkson University in 1966 and had been employed at IBM for 17 years and was the Sales Manager at JB Kane for 26 years. He enjoyed his 25 years of membership at The Cazenovia Golf Club and his 33 years on the Monday night Bowling League at Caz Sports Bowl. Tom was an active member of the Cazenovia Community as a school Crossing Guard on Hurd and Green Streets, an attendant at the Burton Street Ice Rink, and he contributed his quick wit and sarcasm to the CGC and Bowling newsletters.
Tom is survived by his sister, Lynda (John) Elliott; his partner of 30 years, Linda Hughes; his children Dianne (Dave Cox) O’Donnell, Tom (Tania) O’Donnell, Nancy (Erin) Escher, and Amy (Les) Mitchell; his 12 grandchildren; a cousin; his nieces and nephew, and his furry friends Lola and Lucy.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021, at the American Legion Post 88, 26 Chenango Street, Cazenovia, NY 13035. Military honors will be conducted at 2:45 p.m. Saturday during the calling hours. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Tom’s memory can be made to CAVAC, 106 Nelson Street, Cazenovia, NY 13035.
To leave a message of sympathy for the O’Donnell family, please visit michaelebrownfuneralservices.com.
