Michael Dale O'Donnell, 67 of Clay Center passed away on September 16, 2022 after a difficult battle with ALS.
Michael was born on August 8th, 1955 to Robert and Eulala O'Donnell in San Jose California. After graduating from Delmar High School in 1974. Mike went on to serve in the United States Air Force from 1975 to 1980 where he served with the Minute Man Missile alert and launch facilities in North Dakota and Arizona. Michael earned several commendations, ribbons, and an Oak leaf. Michael married Raechell Larson (Shelly), from Minot North Dakota in 1977. Following his service with the Air Force, Michael also served with the United States Army as Combat Engineer until 1987 where he earned the Army Commendation Metal, Expert Marksman, Hand Grenade and NCO professional Military Education Awards.
Michael attended Humboldt University of California in 1989 and later earned a bachelor of business from Cloud County Community College in 1989. From 1988, until his retirement in 2004, Michael worked for the USPS in distribution and as Post Master. Michael was a member of the American Legion and APW union. Throughout their earlier years, Michael and his wife Shelly were foster parents for 187 children. Michael enjoyed home renovation, carpentry, and landscaping. He raised Emus, enjoyed fishing and boating.
Michael is predeceased by his father, Robert Dale O'Donnell and brother, Robert Lee O'Donnell. He is survived by his wife Shelly O'Donnell of Clay Center, KS. Mother, Eulala Mae O'Donnell of Oroville, Ca. his four sons, Matthew and wife Danielle O'Donnell of Clay Center, Todd Michael O'Donnell of Clay Center, Robert J. O'Donnell of Clay Center and Aaron Antonio O'Donnell of Clay Center. His brother, David Lee O'Donnell and Kristen Thibodeau of Poland Maine. Grandchildren are Aiden and Stella O'Donnell.
Funeral Services: 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, September 20, 2022 at the Clay Center Covenant Church, Clay Center, KS
Burial: Garfield Center Mission Cemetery, Clay County, KS
Memorials can be made to ALS/KU and left in care of the funeral home