Obituary of Gary Wayne Donnell

Gary Wayne Donnell was born in Morris, Illinois on July 6, 1959. He was one of three children born from the union of S. Richard Donnell and the late Janice (Coop) Donnell.

Gary married the love of his life, the former Karen Bushroe on August 13, 1982, in Monroe. The couple would be blessed with one daughter: Jessica whom he loved with all of his heart.

To support his family, Gary worked as a computer analyst, running large mainframe computers for over 36 years at Artech at Ford Credit. Gary was a great father and grandfather. His family remembers him as someone who always cared about everyone else, especially his grandchildren. Whenever possible, Gary loved to watch their activities and cheer them on, even if from afar. He was always interested in keeping up with Chandlers career in Monster Truck racing, Riley’s love of soccer, Conner’s love for animals and “little” Jessica’s education.

More than anything, Gary enjoyed being at home with his wife and best friend Karen. He was a person that anyone could come to for advice. Gary spent countless hours working on his yard and swimming in the backyard pool. He was always working on his 1995 Pontiac Firebird, a car that he loved. He also took care of his family no matter how far away they were or whatever the reason. Gary enjoyed classic rock and was particularly fond of the group Pink Floyd. He often said that the song "Comfortably Numb" best described how he lived his life.

Gary Wayne Donnell, age 60, of Monroe passed away at his home on Saturday, August 10, 2019. His passing was preceded by his mother; Janice Donnell, and his brother; Jeffrey Donnell.

To cherish his memory, Gary leaves his wife of 37 years, Karen Marie Donnell, his daughter; Jessica Lynn Kelley (John) of Bonaire, Georgia, his sister; Karen Schroeder of Monroe, four grandchildren; Jessica Marie Brown of Monroe, Chandler J. West of Bonaire, Riley Grace Kelley of Bonaire, Connor Anthony Kelley of Bonaire; his nephew Andrew Bushroe of Monroe; his mother in law: Josephine Bushroe of Monroe and several other nieces and nephews, as well as extended family members and friends.

A private Celebration of His Life will be planned for a future date in accordance with the families’ wishes. Arrangements were entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe 2442 North Monroe Street (34) 384-5185. Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.