O'DONNELL, LOREY M. - "I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God….Psalm 84:10" - It is with great sadness the family of Lorey Merton O'Donnell announce his passing at York Care Centre, Fredericton on Friday, March 29, 2013. Lorey was born October 14, 1929 in Doaktown, NB, the son of the late Frank and Florence (Storey) O'Donnell. Lorey was employed for a number of years at Chestnut Canoe Factory followed by many years painting until retirement. He was a faithful member of Capital Community Church in Fredericton and was an usher for fifty plus years, a position he esteemed very highly. He always quoted, "once an usher always an usher." Lorey leaves behind his loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Maxine A. (Taylor) O'Donnell; his much loved son and daughter-in-law, Eugene and Greta O'Donnell. He was affectionately known as "Gunky" to his much loved grandchildren, Gina Lynch (Matthew) and Micah (Emma) and this passed on to his four cherished great grandchildren, Piper, Tatium, Renly and Emile. Lorey is also survived by a brother Harold (Olive) O'Donnell; a sister Nan (Jean) MacDonald; sisters-in-law Pearl O'Donnell and Vera O'Donnell; nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides his parents, Lorey was also predeceased by brothers, Rev. Blain L. O'Donnell and Vance M. O'Donnell, a sister Valda Grant (late Donald) and a niece Debby Gilby.
The family will receive condolences at Bishop's Funeral Home, 540 Woodstock Road, Fredericton on Saturday, March 30 from 7 to 9 PM and Sunday, March 31 from 2 to 4 PM and 7 to 9 PM. A service celebrating the life of Lorey O'Donnell will be held at Capital Community Church, 71 Downing St., Fredericton on Monday, April 1, 2013 at 1:00 PM with Rev. Raymond Woodward and Rev. Jack Leaman officiating. Interment in the Dayton Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions to the Foreign Missions Dept. (Guatemala) c/o Capital Community Church or to a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. A special "Thank You" to the staff of York Care Centre for the wonderful care and support that was given to Lorey and his family. Online condolences and the sharing of memories can be expressed through www.bishopsfuneralhome.com