Justin Ryan O'Donnell

Justin Ryan O’Donnell age 16, of Springville, Utah passed away on November 17, 2015. He was born the youngest of 8 children on March 8, 1999 in Canandaigua, New York to Paul James O’Donnell and Diane Mary O’Donnell. He moved with his parents to Springville, Utah in 2013. Justin was a member of the 2nd Ward of the Springville Utah Springcreek South Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints.

Those who knew Justin in his younger years especially will recall his natural athleticism and love of the outdoors where he would hike, bike, swim and try out survival skills he saw on TV. As a teen he battled lyme disease for several years until very recently he was miraculously healed by his tremendous faith in a priesthood blessing. But while he was too sick for the outdoors Justin poured his efforts into more cerebral pursuits. Soon he knew his computer inside and out. He became skilled at animation, graphic design and rebuilding his computer a piece at a time.  An avid gamer, he skillfully lead his “guild” of online friends from around the world into victorious virtual battle. Perhaps only they will truly appreciate the day he proudly achieved the rank of “emperor” in Elder Scrolls, a title held only by one person at a time in the entire world.

Normally quiet, philosophical and a bit aloof, Justin could also shock the unsuspecting into peals of laughter with his wit and humor. His hilarious one-liners are legendary in O’Donnell family lore. He seemed to delight in surprise through contrast. While Justin routinely avoided many social situations, or showed up defiantly dressed in pajama pants and slippers, he always approached his work with a particular flair. When it was time to DJ a school dance or run lighting and sound for a school musical, he appeared as his alter-ego, “The Maestro”. Dressed sharply in a dark suit and bright tie this silent, mysterious performer delighted crowds with his flawless performance. Justin was always extremely talented, knowledgeable and successful at everything he committed to.

Justin is survived by his parents, Paul and Diane O’Donnell and his older siblings Sean O’Donnell, Genevieve O’Ryan, Emily Schaefer, Cailin Van Eizenga, Shannon Carlson, Bonny Welburn, and Bethany Miner as well as 4 nieces and 11 nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 21, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South in Springville. Friends and family are also invited to attend a viewing at the mortuary 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday evening or one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Burial will be in the Historic Springville City Cemetery following the service.