Obituary of Michael J. Donnelly

Penfield: , 79, passed away peacefully, January 8, 2020 surrounded by his loving wife, three daughters, and family. He was born on October 30, 1940, and grew up in Lakewood, Ohio. Michael is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Lorraine (Hall) Donnelly, brother Daniel Donnelly, and nephew Brian Donnelly Call. Survived by his devoted wife Helen; Daughters: Kimberly (Curt) Beery, Heather Donnelly, Laura (Dustin) Buty; Grandchildren: Spencer and Hanna Beery, Madison, Jackson, and Paige Buty; Sisters: Patricia Donnelly, Mary Lou (Bill) Call, and brother Joseph Donnelly, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and brother-in-law. Michael graduated from Saint Edwards High School, class of 1958, and earned a BS in Broadcast Communications and Journalism from Kent State University. He served as a member of the National Guard. Michael had a long and successful career with Eastman Kodak, Dupont Co., MonroLitho, Holliman Associates, Easter Seals, and the Genesse Hospital Foundation. Once he retired, he continued to work as a senior career coach/counselor to professionals seeking new positions. Michael's greatest achievement was being a pancreatic cancer survivor of sixteen years. He was the first patient to enroll in an intensive treatment clinical trial at the James P. Wilmont Cancer Center. This experience offered him a chance to share his own story with many cancer survivors and support groups throughout the country. Michael was on the Board of Directors at the Wilmont Cancer Center and an advisor to the American Cancer Society. He was a steadfast member of Rotary International for over 30 years and also active with the Ad Council of Rochester, Rochester Press Radio Club, Board of Regional Veterans Business Council, Special Olympics, and many other initiatives. Michael was an avid reader; he and Helen enjoyed traveling and playing golf together. He will be greatly missed by his family, many friends, and clients. Family and friends may call from 1:00 to 4:00 pm on Monday, January 13 at Willard H. Scott Funeral Home, 12 South Ave., Webster. Mass of Christian Burial, on Tuesday, January 14, 10:00 am at St. Jerome's Church, 207 Garfield St, East Rochester. Private family interment at Webster Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Michael J. Donnelly may be directed to Wilmont Cancer Institue, Pancreatic Cancer Research,URMC, Box 704, 601 Elmwood Ave., Rochester, NY 14642 or to Pancreatic Cancer Association of Western NY, P.O. Box 24580, Rochester, NY 14624-0580.