James Edward Donnelly passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 20th, at his home in Redwood City at the age of 87. Jim was born in San Francisco to Ward and Iona Donnelly, their third son, and with his sister, Dolores, still to come. He is survived by his older brother Ward Donnelly, son Matthew Donnelly (Janelle,) daughter Jeanine Seaver (Scott) and grandsons Kael and Aedan Seaver, plus a plethora of nieces and nephews and their growing families. Jim was raised in The Avenues neighborhood of San Francisco, attending St. Anne's grammar school and graduating from Lincoln High School. Golden Gate Park as it existed in the 50s was the neighborhood play ground for Jim, where many ball games and lots of childhood fun occurred. After high school, and two years in the U.S. Army, Jim spent most of his working years as a local Teamster truck driver where he got to meet lots of interesting people and use his astute sense of direction and knowledge of just about every street in SF and beyond. He married Marilynn Ann Hoedt, also a San Franciscan, in 1961 and soon was a welcome part of her large family. Jim was well loved and his easy going witty company enjoyed by many - school friends, neighborhood pals, his and his wife's family members of all generations, his children and grandchildren, their friends and families, church friends etc..
Jim also was an all sports enthusiast and a really good runner! In his 40s and 50s he competed in several individual road races plus relay triathlons with friends. His relay team dominated their age group for years. Lastly, Jim has been a part of St. Matthias parish in Redwood City for over 50 years; his service will be held there and open to the public on November 14th at 11 AM.
Donations in lieu of flowers may be made in his memory to The Catholic Charity Workers House in Redwood City, 545 Cassia Street, 94063. Mailed checks are preferred.