David "Rusty" O'Donnell

Do not cry for me, for I am in a better place. My strength and abilities have returned to me once again. Instead, celebrate my homecoming and know that I will see you again. It's ok though if you do cry. As Rusty would say, "Do as I say, not as I do". Heaven gained one of the sweetest, kindest souls on this earth with the passing of David P. "Rusty" O'Donnell, on June 1, 2016 with complications from Parkinson's Disease. He passed in Edgewater, MD in close proximity to his daughter, Stephanie and her family. As Rusty knows no strangers or enemies, you already know he was a strong man who exuded kindness and found great joy in helping anyone in need. From a stranger with a flat tire, to a friend in need of a full thanksgiving dinner for her family (anonymously given), Rusty was there without question or expectation of a return favor. Rusty was born in Altoona, PA in 1945. He graduated from Altoona High School in 1963. From there he enlisted into the U.S Navy, where he was proud to serve his country from 1964-1968, serving as a communications specialists. He was also honored to have spent some of his time on the USS Intrepid. Upon being honorably discharged, he began growing his handlebar mustache, he was so famously known for. He also began a long term career with Penelec, eventually being promoted to water lab technician and began the plant Emergency Medical Technician response team. He started his career in Altoona PA and was later transferred to Indiana PA, with his then wife Sherrie. In 1973, Rusty began an almost 40 year volunteer commitment to Indiana County. He held many titles and leadership roles within the Emergency Services which included Civil Defense, Emergency Management Agency, Citizens Ambulance Service and the Hazardous Materials Team, Team 900. In 1976, Rusty began the job he was best at... He became a Daddy to Stephanie. He was the most loving, supportive, kindest, patient father a girl could ask for. The two were inseperatable, forming a bond that was easily seen by anyone. Nicknames resulted such as "Little Rusty", that would stick, even into her young adult life. Understanding the need for a girl to be well rounded, he taught her how to get dirty and how to be a lady. He introduced her to emergency services, taught her how to be a loving parent, how to be independent and introduced her to the oldies as they drove in his truck. He never left her behind. He was a priceless gift to her life and he will forever be her hero. In 1976, he also began his 32 year involvement with the Indiana County Amateur Radio club and would volunteer during many disasters in and surrounding Indiana County. He would later also join the Indiana Flyers Club, flying model airplanes. In 1999 he retired from Penelec due to the onset of Parkinson's and to open his schedule to becoming a full time Grandfather to Zachery "Zack" David. He would later have two more Grandchildren, Andrew "Andy" Allen and Annabella "Bella" Galiber. These grandchildren would become his pride and joy. Rusty is survived by his daughter Stephanie O'Donnell-Galiber, her husband Marc Galiber and his three grandchildren Zack, Andy, & Bella, all of Edgewater, MD. He is also survived by his Sister Dolores "Sis" Oppel, Altoona PA, his Ex wife Sherrie O'Donnell, Indiana PA, his dog "Reggie" and many cousins, nieces, nephews and an abundance of valued friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Eugene O'Donnell, Mabel Hewitt and his brother Jim O'Donnell. Visitation at Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home located at 965 Philadelphia St.Indiana PA 15701 will be held June 12th from 2-4 & 7-9 pm. June 13th visitation will be from 10-11 am with funeral services beginning at 11 am. The repass with full lunch will be held at 12:30 following the services and will be located at Rustic Lodge 2199 Oakland Ave.Indiana PA 15701. A celebration of life will also be held in Maryland on June 18th at Marc & Stephanie's home. Arrival at 6 pm with a candlelight service being held at 7 pm. Please celebrate his life in color during the services, instead of mourning in black if you are so inclined. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Team 900, 85 Haven Drive, Indiana PA. 15701