Kerry Andrew O'Donnell, 39

Kerry Andrew O’Donnell, beloved son and brother, passed away early Monday morning on Dec. 26, 2011, after a hard fought and courageous battle with the devastating disease of cancer. He was surrounded by and cared for by his devoted family and fiancee.

Kerry was born on Jan. 21, 1972, in Kalispell, to James D. and Beatrice I. O’Donnell. He was the youngest of six children. He started school at age 4, attending schools in Kalispell and graduating from Flathead High in 1990. Kerry had a great love for knowledge, and after high school attended and obtained degrees in criminal justice and aviation science from the University of North Dakota-Grand Forks; receiving his “wings” to fly small planes and becoming a licensed helicopter pilot.

He ultimately received his Juris Doctor degree, graduating with honors from the University of North Dakota-Fargo School of Law in 2003, hoping to one day become a judge. Kerry was working at the law firm of Henning, Keedy and Lee at the time of his death. 

Kerry had an avid love of sports throughout his life and school years, participating and excelling in baseball, football, basketball and wrestling; and had received a full baseball scholarship from Susanville College in California after high school.

He loved reading, outdoor activities, especially hiking with his brother Shawn, and his favorite college hockey team, the Fighting Sioux, of North Dakota.

In 2001 he married Greta Richards in Fargo, N.D.. After separating in 2008, Kerry moved back to Kalispell to be with family. He met and fell in love with Billie Jean.

Kerry was preceded in death by his beloved dad, James D. O’Donnell; and several sets of grandparents,

He is survived by his dear mom, Bea O’Donnell, three brothers, Shawn and wife Arlene of Kalispell; Dan, also of Kalispell; and Terry, living in Everett, Wash.; two sisters, Becky of Kalispell, and Debbie of Belchertown, Mass.; his devoted fiancee and companion, Billie Jean, and her two sons, Ricky and Geno, whom he loved and thought of as his own; and by many nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place. There will be a memorial service for Kerry at 4 p.m. on Friday Dec. 30, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home. Please join us on that day to remember and celebrate Kerry’s life.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Kerry’s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Kerry’s guest book, offer condolences and share memories.