Loving Son of the late John McDonnell and the late Mary nee Cunningham and many beloved family members and dear friends throughout his life.

Fr. John J. McDonnell was ordained on May 9, 1973. His first parish assignment was at St. Louise de Marillac in LaGrange. He then was associate pastor at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago from 1978 until 1986.  Shortly after this assignment, Fr. John studied at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. In 1990, Fr. John returned to Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago, and at that time was also a Professor of Theology at the University of St. Mary of the Lake-Mundelein Seminary. From 1997 until 2003, Fr. John served as Secretary to the late Cardinal George.  Fr. John's last assignment, one he much desired, was in 2003 as the sixth pastor at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church on the southwest side of Chicago. Here Fr. John generously ministered to all in the parish and beyond, including his involvement in welcoming the growing Hispanic community. Fr. John's contributions to St. Mary Star of the Sea Church will always be remembered.

Fr. John's remains will lie in state on Thursday 2-8 PM and on Friday, 9-11 AM at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church 6435 S. Kilbourn in Chicago. Funeral Mass will also be at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church on Friday at 11 AM.  Interment All Saints Cemetery in DesPlaines. Arrangements by WOLNIAK FUNERAL HOME 773-767-4500 or www.wolniakfuneralhome.com