Dennis Dean O’Donnell was born on October 26, 1940 on a farm in Humboldt, Iowa, the youngest of Austin and Amy O’Donnell’s six children. He left this life on April 3, 2018, with son Jeff by his side, in Richland, WA.

Dennis learned his strong work ethic from his earliest days on the farm. In 1959 he joined the US Air Force and served his country admirably for four years traveling the world. He returned to Humboldt and married his wife of fifty three years, Marjorie Conlon. Together they had two children, daughter Linda and son Jeff.

Seeking better career opportunities the family moved from Iowa to Denver, CO for two years and then Richland, WA. Dennis eventually took a job as a journeyman lineman for the City Of Richland, where he worked for over three decades. When a storm or other mishap took out your power Dennis was one they called. He loved his job and led many crews over the years. A harder worker was not to be found.

Dennis was a friend of Bill W and enjoyed the fellowship of his Friday night and noon time meetings.

Growing up the youngest in a large family, he was lucky to enjoy many years of fun family reunions around the country with his four brothers and one sister. As their families grew so did the reunions. One of the best times for all were these family gatherings, where stories of growing up on the farm were shared with children and grandchildren. Many happy memories remain for these gatherings. 

The life Dennis and Marge lived was exactly as they wanted it. It was a simple life filled with the simple pleasures they enjoyed together; gardening and yard work; bicycle rides, walks around their south Richland neighborhoods, hiking in the northwest, and relaxing at home. He particularly enjoyed his trips with Jeff to Nascar races in Daytona and Phoenix, and with Linda and Tom to Sun Valley. Many happy afternoons were also spent on Bainbridge Island reading a good book and looking out at Puget Sound.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Austin and Amy, brother Keith, and sister Phyllis

Garrett. He is survived by wife Marge, son Jeff, daughter Linda, son-in-law Tom Sparling, brothers Jerry, Jim, and Larry, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial Service to be held at Christ the King Catholic Church in Richland, on Saturday, April 7, at 10 am; with reception to follow at Sunset Event Center. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Washington.

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