Dennis O'Donnell

Dennis Edward O’Donnell passed away peacefully at home in San Jose, California. After a diagnosis of cancer in 2011 and lots of prayers, he went into remission. He became a stroke survivor in Feb of 2023 and became paralyzed on his right side. This April 2025 he received another advanced cancer diagnosis and succumb to his illness on July 23, 2025. Born on January 5, 1952, in Syracuse, New York, Dennis was a very proud, stoic man that lived a life full of adventure, love, and devotion to family.

His early years were marked by travel as his family moved around the world before settling in Southern California, eventually making their home in the Bay Area. Dennis attended Lynbrook High School and graduated with the Class of 1971. Soon after, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee (1971-1981), where he developed a strong work ethic and a lifelong appreciation for building and mechanics.

While working at Mervyn’s, Dennis met the love of his life, Debbi. They married and built a life together, raising two children, Sharon and Michael. Dennis later joined the family business and spent many years working at Royal Glass Company, from which he eventually retired. Never one to sit still, he went on to build bicycles at Toys "R" Us — a job he took simply because he enjoyed staying busy and putting things together.

Dennis was known for his love of cars, especially working on them, and could often be found in the garage tinkering with an engine or helping a friend or neighbor in need. Above all else, he loved his family deeply. He cherished time spent with his wife, children, and especially his granddaughter, Natalia, who brought immense joy into his later years.

He is survived by his beloved wife Debbi of 48 years, daughter Sharon, son in-law Calixtro, granddaughter Natalia (8), son Michael, daughter in-law Barbara, and brother Kelly. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, brother and sister-in-laws, nieces and nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many close friends and caregivers who became like family.

Dennis was preceded in death by his grandmother Flossie, mother Elizabeth, father Cornelius, and aunt Gini.

A memorial will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Dennis’s memory by spending time with your loved ones and maybe fixing something up in the garage — just like he would have.

Rest in peace, Dennis. You were deeply loved and will be greatly missed.