Services Set For Oak Forest Man Killed In Fall From Scaffolding

OAK FOREST, IL — An Oak Forest man killed in a fall from scaffolding at University of Chicago hospital last week is being remembered as a respected worker and devoted family member.

David O'Donnell, 27, died June 6 after falling nine stories from scaffolding at the hospital's in-progress cancer pavilion. O'Donnell had honored a promise he made to his father in pursuing a career as a technical engineer, his obituary reads.

"They would go on together, along with his Uncle Eamon, to help build some of the tallest skyscrapers you will see in Chicago," family wrote in his obituary.

Born to David and Christine, O'Donnell was raised in Oak Forest, where he and his brothers were "constant companions, throughout the many years of football, baseball, and many family parties."

Like his parents, aunts and uncle, O'Donnell attended Oak Forest High School.

"There he was at the center of a large, tight-knit group of friends, some of whom had known each other since kindergarten," his obituary reads.

"He was known for his bright smile and infectious laughter, as well as being the person you could count on having your back in tough circumstances."

O'Donnell's dedication and work ethic shone in high school, particularly in his wrestling career.

"David excelled at everything he put his mind and incredible work ethic to," family wrote. "This was certainly reflected by his wrestling career at OFHS, on a team that had gone to two state tournaments."

O'Donnell was a member of Union Local 130 Technical Engineering Division—a role to which he aspired from a young age, family said. In his work erecting skyscrapers, O'Donnell built a bond with ironworkers.

"David earned the love and respect of the union brothers of the Local 1 ironworkers, by virtue of his endearing personality and industrious nature," his obituary reads. "Their bond became like a family's."

O'Donnell deeply valued family and his time with them.

"He made certain to never miss any family function, and he always will be remembered at every single one going forward," his obituary reads.

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 13 from 3 to 9 p.m. at Robert J. Sheehy & Sons Funeral Home, 9000 W. 151st St., in Orland Park. Funeral Friday, June 14 at 9 a.m. at the funeral home, with 10 a.m. Mass at St. Damian, 5250 155th St., in Oak Forest.