Stephen Matthew McDonnell's Obituary
Stephen Matthew McDonnell, born May 5th, 1963 in Hollywood FL, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 59 on Christmas day, December 25th, 2022.
He is survived by his 3 Children: Brittany McDonnell (Bryan Pellicer), Dylan McDonnell (Victoria Olmsted), Rachael McDonnell (Alex Martinez). His ex-wife of 30yrs Eileen (Gould) McDonnell; His 5 Grandchildren: Noah McDonnell (9), Julia Pellicer (5), Chloe Pellicer (3), Saleena Martinez (2), Jack Martinez (2 months), and 1 bonus Granddaughter Alyssa Pellicer (15). His siblings: Pat Delano, Lorraine Stevenson, & Richard McDonnell. He was predeceased by his parents: Lawrence (Ed) McDonnell, Mary Kathleen (Millard) McDonnell, his brother John McDonnell, and his oldest son Stephen Matthew McDonnell, Jr.
Raised in Yonkers, New York he was the youngest of 5 children, and graduated from Saunders Trades and Technical High School. He moved back to Florida in his early 20's and met his wife Eileen who he spent 36 years of a life, marriage, and children with. Steve was very smart and excelled as an engineer of CAD designing fire alarm systems for Lee/Collier County. His final position in 2018 was an accomplished dream of his; Florida State Fire Marshall for Lee/Collier County. Steve had a great sense of humor, was the greatest practical joker and very outgoing. He worked very hard to secure a life for his wife and children, only ever wanting to see them succeed. Steve influenced many lives, and we share fond memories with friends and family. Steve had a big heart and would give you the shirt off his back. He was always there for his children. He loved old cars and owned many Mopar's in his lifetime. "Betty" being his high school car, a 1969 Dodge Charger, was the love of his life. He taught Dylan how to work on cars and fix them, he taught Brittany how to do Math beyond her years and CAD design. He taught Rachael her love of music and took her to see Black Sabbath in concert. Steve will be sorely missed by all who knew him... Gone but never forgotten in the lives of his children, and his grandchildren.
Flowers or donations can be sent to his daughter: Brittany McDonnell.
The family is planning a celebration of life on February 4th, 2023 at 3:00pm for an hour at: Friendship Grace Brethren Church, 10251 Metro Parkway, Ste # 116. Fort Myers, FL 33966. Anyone who would like to come and give a funny story or memory is welcome to attend.
To share a story or photo, leave a tribute or to offer condolences to the family at this difficult time please visit Steve's memorial webpage at www.fortmyersmemorial.com and sign his guestbook.
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