Randall (Randy) O’Donnell

Randy, at the age of 68, passed away after an aggressive battle with cancer on February 14th, 2022, surrounded by loved ones at his home in Scottsdale, Arizona. His loved ones will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest.

Randy was born on June 14th, 1953, in Marquette, Michigan. He obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Education at Northern Michigan University and Master’s Degree from Northern Arizona University.

Randy was a member of the Peace Corps and spent 2 1/2 years in St. Lucia, West Indies. Randy was a dedicated high school history teacher and coach before becoming principal at Antelope Union High School in Wellton, Arizona. He wasn’t your average principal. He cared deeply about his students and teachers. He made sure to attend school events to show his team spirit and support. He would even walk the campus jumping into classrooms to show off his teaching skills.

In addition to his love of education, he loved the Green Bay Packers. We knew it was football season when Cheeseheads with Attitude and the smell of brats being grilled was your alarm at 9 am on Sunday morning. But as much as he loved the Packers, he loved his family even more. This was made clear when he chose to watch Punky Brewster or Barney with his daughters, instead of the Packers game to make them happy.

Although his life changed drastically after his stroke 12 years ago, he was still able to live his life to the fullest. He experienced a lot of joy traveling to Ireland, watching a Packer game at Lambeau Field with his kids, several trips back home to Marquette, Michigan and watching his grandchildren grow. To those that didn’t know him very well, he may have come off a little cantankerous, but his kids and grandkids brought him a lot of happiness.

Randy is survived by his three children: Wendy (Brian) O’Donnell-Stark of Scottsdale Arizona, Tim O’Donnell of Chandler, Arizona, and Jessica (Tunde) O’Donnell of Tucson, Arizona and his 4 grandchildren: Tatum, Cameron (Cami), and Devin Stark, and Selena O’Donnell. He is also survived by 2 sisters: Julie & Maureen and 3 brothers: Jim, Patrick & Shawn.

Randy was preceded in death by his daughter: Cassandra O’Donnell Burch from Yuma, Arizona and parents: Donald and Rita O’Donnell of Marquette, Michigan.