Joanne McDonnell

On Thursday, February 27, 2020, “the queen”, Joanne McDonnell, passed away, peacefully, in her sleep and walked on to her next great adventure. Born on January 12, 1932, she graced the world with her presence for eighty-eight years. On September 10, 1960, she married her wonderful husband, James “Jim” McDonnell, whom she often referred to as “Saint James”. Over the years, they enjoyed traveling the world, spending time with and supporting their four kids and twelve grandkids, and simply sharing each other’s company. Their love was full of adventure, support, spontaneity, and commitment; their everlasting marriage was approaching its sixtieth anniversary.

As an individual, Joanne was known for her spunky and bold personality as well as her sincere and genuine nature. She had a powerful and regal-like presence about her which earned her the title of “the queen”. During her reign, she loved spending her time dancing with Jim, visiting Florida, spending time at the “Island” in Rochester, Indiana, playing Solitaire, drinking tea, shopping at various locations, and most importantly, enjoying the company of her beloved family and friends.

Joanne was an impressive woman who led a fulfilling life through a variety of careers and memberships. She spent a couple of years as a preschool instructor in Bellwood and a few years as an elementary school educator for the Mater Christi Grammar School. Notably, Joanne was deeply involved in the early growth of the city of Oakbrook Terrace, the place she called home for fifty-nine years. She held an instrumental role in creating the first Youth Commission while she also spent a decade as a police commissioner. Separately, Joanne was an integral and influential member of the Irish Children’s Fund.

Of course, Joanne was a beloved mother to her four kids: Tricia (Bill) Boyd, Morgan McDonnell, Matthew McDonnell, and Michele (Ross) VanDusen while she was also an endeared grandma to her twelve grandkids: Nichole, Jocelyn, Rachel, Phillip, Sean, Dominic, Patrick, Michael, Marshall, Anthony, Carson, and Connor. Joanne was a cherished friend to many.

Throughout the years, Joanne touched and illuminated the lives of those who were blessed to know her. She will be dearly missed and remembered by her loved ones who will keep her spirit alive through the countless stories and memories of her. Her iconic and legendary life will be celebrated.

Per Joanne’s request, there will not be a service held; she also requested that people send their thoughts and prayers for the family, not flowers or donations. In her own words, “Bring me flowers when I am alive, not when I’m dead.”