John O'Donnell

John C. O'Donnell, 70, formerly of 300 W. F St. in Iron Mountain, passed away on Sunday, January 22, 2012, at ManorCare HCR in Kingsford. John was born November 1, 1941 in Iron Mountain, son of the late Dr. J.C. and Eileen (McKindles) O'Donnell. He was a 1959 graduate of Iron Mountain High School and attended both Northern Michigan University and the University of Colorado. John was a veteran of the United States Air Force and served from 1963-1967. After he was discharged from the Air Force, John returned to Iron Mountain and formed the White Beret Drum and Bugle Corp. They performed in this area for many years and were a favorite during local parades. He has been an active member of the Iron Mountain business and political community. John owned and operated the Last Chance Saloon on Iron Mountains "North Side" for many years. He enjoyed celebrating his Irish heritage and St. Patrick's Day was always special at the Last Chance. John also served as Mayor of Iron Mountain for nine years, during the time that the city was a strong mayor form of government and was elected specifically to the cities top position. He was involved in Iron Mountain city government for over twenty years, including positions on the TIFA and Housing Authority boards. John was a member of St. Mary & St. Joseph Church and the Uren-Cooper-Johnson American Legion Post 50. He loved the outdoors. Hunting and fishing, especially his annual fishing trip to Canada were his passions. John was also an avid gardener. He is survived by his sister, Marybelle Johnson of Norway; his brother, Bob O'Donnell of Green Bay; nieces and nephews, Leanne (Brian) Wierschke of Niagara, Brock Johnson of Norway, Kristen (Ian) Bednarz of Green Bay, Kevin Johnson of Norway and Kelsey O'Donnell Mauthe of Green Bay; four great nieces and nephews. John is also survived by a special friend who was thought of as a son, Don (Kim) Dinnocenzo and his friend Jeff VanLaanen, who brought John's dog to see him every day. John was preceded in death by his brother in law, Larry Johnson. Visitation will be Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home in Iron Mountain and from 10:30-11:00am Thursday at St. Mary & St. Joseph Church. Uren-Cooper-Johnson American Legion Post 50 will conduct a pass and review at 6:30 on Wednesday evening at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 11 a.m. at St. Mary & St. Joseph Catholic Church. Fr. Daniel Zaloga and Fr. Raymond Valerio will concelebrate the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will be at Norway Twp. Cemetery. The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the funeral arrangements.

John O'Donnell

January 22, 1942 - January 22, 2012