Alan O'Donnell

ROAMING SHORES – Alan O’Donnell, 85, passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, February 5, 2026, in Medina, Ohio, after a brief illness.

Alan was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on October 26, 1940, the son of Stephen and Blanche (McPhail) O’Donnell. A graduate of Independence High School, Class of 1958, Alan went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Army.

In 1962, fate brought him together with the love of his life, Carol Ann Wallace — a moment he would forever cherish as love at first sight. Alan often said he knew from that very first day that Carol was “the one.” On October 26, 1963, they were married at St. Leo’s Catholic Church, beginning a 59-year journey filled with laughter, partnership, and unwavering devotion. Their marriage was the heart of Alan’s life, and everything he did centered around the deep love he and Carol shared and the beautiful family they built together.

That love grew with every child, grandchild, and great-grandchild who came into their lives. Alan beamed with pride whenever he spoke of his family; nothing brought him more joy than being surrounded by them, hearing their laughter, and watching their lives unfold. When his beloved Carol passed away on February 2, 2023, a part of him went with her — but his family finds comfort knowing that their souls are now reunited, their love everlasting.

Alan spent more than 30 years as an electrical engineer for C.E.I., where his dedication and quiet integrity earned the admiration of his colleagues. He was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Rock Creek and embodied the values of faith, humility, and gratitude in all he did.

A man of many talents, Alan enjoyed boating, playing the guitar and harmonica, and woodworking. His craftsmanship was a reflection of his care — each piece he built for his loved ones was made with patience and love. Family vacations and summers at Apple Valley, in the cabin he proudly built himself, were among his most cherished times. Traveling with Carol — from Alaska to Hawaii to winters spent in Florida — brought him great happiness and countless memories.

Alan is survived by the family he loved so deeply: his children, Michael (Michelle) O’Donnell, Matthew (Barbara) O’Donnell, Mary (Don) Libertowski, and Megan (Jason) Sroka; his adored grandchildren, Skyler (Felica), Talitha (Dan), Nathan (Angelica), Kevin (Kim), Justin (Diana), Kayla, Zachary, and Melody; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Israel, Hezekiah, Moses, Isabella, Thane, Thaddeus, Vincenzo, and Domenic. He is also survived by his brother, David (Susan), a special niece, Tangerine (Tony), and their daughters, Amora and Lila.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol, and his parents.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 14, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 606 E. Washington Street, Medina, Ohio 44256. Calling hours will be held at the church one hour prior to the Mass, from 10:00–11:00 a.m., with a luncheon immediately following the service.

Memorial contributions may be made in Alan’s name to Sacred Heart Church or the Rock Creek Public Library. Condolences and contributions can be sent to The O’Donnell Family, 140 Glenshire Lane, Medina, Ohio 44256.

Alan’s life was defined by love — for Carol, for his family, and for every beautiful moment he shared with them. His family will carry that love forward, forever grateful for the strength, warmth, and devotion he gave them all

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