Karen Lee O'Donnell's Obituary
Karen Lee O'Donnell, 70, of Millstadt, IL., born June 3, 1954, in Belleville, IL., to the late LaVern and Marguerite, nee Jackson, Steppig, passed away on August 30, 2024, St. Louis, MO.
Surviving are her Husband of 50 years, John O'Donnell of Millstadt, IL, Son, Brian (Crystal) O'Donnell, Son, Bradley (Shannon) O'Donnell, Daughter, Ashley (Jon Riley) O'Donnell, Brother, Dwain Steppig, Granddaughter, Megan O'Donnell, Grandson, Brody O'Donnell, Grandson, Patrick O'Donnell, Granddaughter, Julia O'Donnell, Granddaughter, Alyssa Riley, Granddaughter, Shanan Riley, along with other relatives and friends.
Karen's passion in life was the operating room. She graduated from Belleville Area College with her degree in Operating Room Technician. She was employed at Barnes Jewish and St. Elizabeth's Hospitals before becoming a stay at home mom for 12 years. She then went back into the field at Notre Dame Surgical Center and then at Health South before retiring. Her other passion was her grandchildren, she loved to play cards with them and have them stay the night, the only thing sweeter than the win was the ice cream and grins. She especially loved baking with her granddaughters and teaching them the ins and outs of baking. Karen also enjoyed spending her winters in Florida, hanging with her bestie Sue and how much Thirsty Thursday's in the garage with her sister-in-law Sandy meant to her. She particularly enjoyed her time in life that they lived in Mississippi and entertaining guests. The O'Donnell family always thought the Mississippi house was like a resort which always tickled her.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Millstadt Columbus Club, Saturday, September 28th, 2024 from 3:00 P.M to 7:00 P.M
In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be directed to BJC Hospice in St. Louis, St. James Grade School, Millstadt Grade School. For more information, please access our website, www.leesmanfuneralhome.com. Arrangements were handled by Leesman Funeral Home.
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