Michael O'Donnell

Michael Ambrose "Doc" O’Donnell passed away unexpectedly on March 27th in his home in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Born on December 19, 1955, to Francis E. and Margaret C. (Cadden) O’Donnell, Michael joined his older brother, Francis (Dubber) as the second son born into the O’Donnell Clan before welcoming sisters, Margaret (Peggy Sue) and Lori.

By birthright, Michael was initiated into the “Broadway Gang” of Jim Thorpe, which brought with it many wonderful memories of growing up with the neighborhood kids and their families. Michael graduated from Jim Thorpe High School in 1974. He found a love of the game of basketball under the direction of head coach Randy Rabenold. He also took with him a love of photography.

Most proud of his Irish roots, Michael was an avid Notre Dame fan and was also a proud member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Jim Thorpe, PA. In addition, he was also a devoted Philadelphia sports fan.

Known as “Doc,” he spent his early years working as a lifeguard at Mauch Chunk Lake and the YMCA. He also tended bar at the American Legion Post on the East Side of Jim Thorpe. He had many stories of customers who became family. For the past 22 years, Michael opted for the simpler life and traded the snow for sand. He followed Fran to the beach and decided to call Jacksonville Beach home. Upon arriving in Florida, his first job was at an oceanfront hotel- a dream job for his surfer-life motto. Later, he took a job at Trader Joe’s where the spirit of the store matched his personality. Michael biked many beach miles to work and back only to end his day leaning his bike against the side of Ragtime Tavern in Atlantic Beach having a hearty stout. Michael enjoyed his time as a Floridian, but Jim Thorpe was always his “home.”

Michael loved his family; he was proud to be an O’Donnell and of Irish descent. He was most proud of the title “Uncle Michael.” He had two loving nieces, Kristin & Keri, two great-nephews, Cadden & Carter and great-nieces, Cecily & Vivienne. Michael was predeceased by his parents, Fran and Margie and sisters, Peggy Sue and Lori. Surviving in addition to his brother Francis, nieces and great-nieces and nephews and many Cadden and O’Donnell cousins.

A mass of Christian burial will be held at Immaculate Conception Church -180 West Broadway-Jim Thorpe, PA on April 11, 2025. Calling hours 10 am at Immaculate Conception. Mass to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his name may be sent to: Jim Thorpe Neighborhood Bank- 12 Broadway-Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 made out to: The Peggy Sue O’Donnell Memorial Foundation c/o Michael A. O’Donnell in the memo line.