John Joseph Donnellon Sr.'s Obituary
John J. Donnellon, Sr. died peacefully and surrounded by his family on February 14, 2019 in Escondido, CA at the age of 82.
John is survived by his children Mary Donnellon Riley, Laura Donnellon Bagley, John J. Donnellon Jr., Noreen Donnellon Hobayan and Kevin M. Donnellon, his eleven grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, RoseMary Donnellon.
John graduated from Stuyvasent High School at age 15 and then went on to earn a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering from New York University. He married RoseMary Donnellon in 1959 and worked as a civil engineer for The City of New York for 35 years. John and RoseMary raised their family in Midland Park, NJ and moved to Escondido, CA after John’s retirement from The City of New York. His children remember him as a kind, gentle and patient father who encouraged them to pursue their goals. He was devoted to family life and his activities centered around his children and grandchildren’s interests. He was unfailingly devoted to his wife, RoseMary.
John was highly accomplished at his work as a civil engineer and excelled at leadership in his work for the City of New York. He was known for his keen intellect and his kindness in managing and directing others. He was a generous man who loved sports especially tennis and basketball, restoring VW bugs and camping. He was passionate about showing the country to his family on yearly camping trips throughout the US and Canada. He was an active basketball referee, tennis player and dedicated volunteer for the The Knights of Columbus Catholic Charity.
A viewing is scheduled for Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at Alhiser-Comer Funeral Home in Escondido from 6:00-8:00 PM. Mass will be held at The Church of the Resurrection in Escondido on Wednesday February 27, 2019 at 11:00 AM. All are welcome to attend and celebrate John's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Knights of Columbus. An online written tribute to honor John’s life can be made at: https://www.alhiser-comer.com/obituaries/
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