Andrew J. "Andy" O'Donnell

UTICA - Andrew J. “Andy” O’Donnell, age 43, went to Heaven and was welcomed by his loved ones who have gone before him, when he passed away on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in San Diego, California on October 3, 1974, Andrew was the son of Thomas H. O’Donnell and Susan M. (Chase) Rioscolon. He also knew the love of his step-father, Fausto “Pop” Rioscolon; Andy was blessed with two caring dads. Andy attended Utica schools and subsequently received additional specialized and individualized educational love from the Vernon-Verona-Sherrill School District where he received his graduation certificate in cap and gown! Andy was a happy-go-lucky guy, blessed with a great spirit. As a child, he was a bright, lively, happy young man with a vast interest in learning and an incredible memory. Unfortunately, Andy was struck by a car while sledding at the Parkway, and his life changed from that day forward. But with love and devotion, he learned a ‘new normal’ that consisted of a highly scheduled lifestyle which he abided by strictly. Each day, he got up at the same time, went to bed at the same time, and during the day he watched TV, music videos, old cartoons especially Woody Woodpecker, and his favorite movie, Grease. And all was good for Andy. He could make you laugh, he could make you cry, but above all, he was an irreplaceable part of his family, sometimes referred to as “the anchor”. He would only eat peanut butter & jelly for lunch, and also just began enjoying Chicken McNuggets. He attended the Cicero Auto Races and liked to listen to the sound of the drag racing engines, especially Car #1320 driven by “Pop”, as Andy cheered him on. He was at his best at his family camp at the Mountain View Campground where he loved to ride in the golf cart. Christmas decorations excited him and he loved tearing open the wrapping paper on the boxes more than seeing their contents. He was a character, and proudly, he always remained Andy, in the best form he could. He was beloved by his entire family and things will not be the same without him. He was affectionately called Little Brother, Buddy, Andy, and Andy John when he acted out. Andrew is survived by his mom and step-dad, Susan M. and Fausto Rioscolon with whom he resided; his Dad, Thomas H. O’Donnell; his brothers, Michael O’Donnell, Stephen O’Donnell and Sheryl Delaney; his step-sister, Stacey Elmer; and step-brother, Norman Elmer, “Fudd” as Andy would refer to him. He will also be remembered by his nieces and nephews, Breanna O’Donnell, Albert Knapp, Roxanne Lloyd, Kristy O’Donnell, Stephen O’Donnell Jr., and their mother Billie Jo Bardo; his great-nephews, Liam, and Phoenix; cousins, aunts, uncles, and a host of friends in his life prior to the accident, and after. They were all family to him. He will be missed by Grandma Isabelle. He was predeceased by his maternal grandmother, Dorma Mathis who is now taking care of Andy until his mom joins him; and his uncle Victor Rios with whom he shared a close bond, on this earth and now in the heavens. The family is grateful to Dr. Chris Clarke who assisted the family in making the best decisions they could for Andy; Kathy Sanger/Patient Advocate who was also a Nurse Practitioner who followed the journey of Andy and his family; she was a true blessing. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Andy's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Sunday afternoon at 4:00 at the funeral home upon conclusion of visitation with Sister Betty Giarrusso, CSJ, officiating. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Andrew J. "Andy" O'Donnell

October 3, 1974 - October 25, 2017