Joseph G. O’Donnell, formerly of Philadelphia, retired in 2013 to North Wildwood, NJ.  Joseph passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. He was 82 years old.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary (Corrigan) O’Donnell; his sister, Maureen Pfender; and his brother, William O’Donnell.

Joseph is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Theresa (Dukeman) O’Donnell; his daughter, Theresa Roberts (Rob); his sons, Joseph (Kate) and Mike (Mika); and his cherished grandchildren, Kirk and Maxine, Meghan and Colleen, and Whitney and Carys.

Joe proudly served in the United States Navy, enlisting in 1965 and Honorably Discharged in 1970. He attained the rank of Radioman Third Class (RM3) and was awarded the National Defense Medal. Following his service, he returned to Philadelphia and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He went on to build a successful career in international logistics, becoming a key contributor to the hazardous materials (HazMat) chemical division at U.S. Lines. During this time, he played an important role in advancing innovative shipping methods such as containerization and the Mini Land Bridge.

Joe raised his family in Warminster, Bucks County, where he was known as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. With a playful sense of humor, he would often jokingly threaten to “inflict pain with the hiney bat” to get his children to bed. He had a joyful spirit, a quick wit, and a love for life that made every gathering brighter—whether it was a day at the beach or a night out. His humor and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Joe and Kate will be hosting an early reception in Wildwood on Sunday, May 3, 2026.  Please reach out for details.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a viewing at St. Ann’s Church , 2901 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood, NJ 08260 on Monday, May 4, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s memory may be made to Wounded Warrior Project or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Condolences at ingersollgreenwoodfh.com