Joan Margaret O'Donnell

Age: 84

Date of Death: November 30, 2022

Toms River, NJ

Joan Margaret O’Donnell (Noerpel), died peacefully in her home on the morning of November 30, 2022 at the age of 84, after a brief illness. She will be sadly missed. Born in Newark NJ to Hedwig and Paul Noerpel on January 12, 1938. She attended Irvington NJ public schools, graduating in 1955. Soon after marrying husband, Edward E.O’Donnell in 1957, the couple moved, becoming lifelong residents of Toms River NJ. Proud of being a full-time mother, she was also proud of her 35 yrs as secretary for the Toms River Yacht Club. “Joannie” was always quick to make and keep friends. She was fiercely social, an enthusiastic game player, avid bowler and camping enthusiast. She was also an active volunteer throughout her life; a cheerful face at the front desk at Community Medical Center for a number of years and most recently becoming a certified Hospice Volunteer. She is preceded in death by her husband of 46 yrs, Edward (Eddie) O’Donnell, her parents, Hedwig and Paul Noerpel, her loving sister Loretta Warner and brother-in-law Mitchell Warner. She is survived by her three sons; Keith (and wife Robyn) of Manchester,NJ; Ken (and partner Darren Riley) of Hillsdale NJ and Kurt (and wife Karen) of Drumore PA. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Justin, Joshua and Janelle DaLeo (and husband Michael), as well as her many nieces, nephews, countless “adopted” children, friends, neighbors and extended family members. Our mother chose to be grateful, focusing on being happy and joyful about her life, a life she considered full, well led and on her terms. Using bravery, humor and her signature honesty she counted her many blessings rather than being sad about dying. She asked that we celebrate her legacy, a life that touched many and was full of love, laughter and fun. Knowing and being able to love each of her family, extended family and friends has been the success story of her life. A life that is to be remembered and celebrated with each hug, laugh, smile and kindness. The O’Donnell family would like to thank the caring staff at VNA Hospice, Community Medical Center, her Doctors and nurses for their kindness and professionalism. Instead of flowers, Joan would have loved it if you could do an unexpected and unsolicited kindness or favor for someone in need or unfortunate in her name. Or if preferred a small donation to the American Cancer Association in her name. The family will be having a Life Celebration/Memorial Service after the first of January, 2023.