Charles J. Donnelly passed away on May 28, 2011.

He was the beloved husband of Dorothy Donnelly (nee Otten) for 63 years; dear father of Roger (Chris), Phyllis (Bill) Casey, and Bruce (Sharon); beloved Grandpa of Erica, Brianne and Rob Casey, Caitlin and Brendan Donnelly. Dearest brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and dear friend to many.

Charles, aka Chas, Bud, Charley, grew up playing football and baseball in Penrose Park. He eventually pitched in the Muny Leagues, as well as three seasons for St. Louis University, where he also served as editor of the University newspaper. He flew fighter planes in the Army Air Corps during World War II; and for decades built hand-launched model planes, including a few that "disappeard in the clouds."

A lifelong fisherman, he enjoyed taking his family to Lake Barkley, Table Rock, and other Midwestern lakes. A fan of sitcoms and movies, he most enjoyed his kids and especially his grandkids, enchanting them with his sense of humor and stories of his youth, the service, and literature. As a hombuilder and as a salesman, he also cared about his clients. Looking back, he said the best part of his life was his marriage to Dorothy Jane Otten.

Services: Memorial Mass Sunday, June 5th 7:00pm at the SLU College Church, Grand and Lindell, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Alzheimer’s, Diabetes, or the St. Vincent DePaul Society.

A special thanks to the good people at Garden View Care Center in Valley Park.