Andrew O’ Donnell of Fairfield, Connecticut, passed away at the age of 39.
He was born in Fairfield, Connecticut, and later moved to Ancramdale, New York, where he enjoyed mountain biking, upland hunting, and helping with chores on the family horse farm.
His love of rowing started at Salisbury School, where he earned a seat in the varsity boat and later served as team captain.
At Hobart College, he rowed in the varsity eight all four years, helping lead the team through an undefeated Liberty League run.
He competed at the highest levels of collegiate rowing, earning medals at the IRA National Championship and the Head of the Charles Regatta.
Even after college, he stayed deeply connected to the sport, competing at the Henley Royal Regatta and coaching at Greenwich Crew, where he started his passion and mentorship with younger athletes.
In 2013, he joined the Oakcliff Sailing Center, launching a sailing career that would take him across thousands of miles of open water and into some of the sport’s most prestigious races.
He logged more than 75,000 offshore nautical miles, including transatlantic races, Bermuda campaigns, and regattas.
Community Is Mourning The Tragic Death Of Andrew O’Donnell
The sources confirmed that Andrew O’Donnell passed away on Friday, May 1, 2026, in Newport, RI, at the age of 39.
However, the cause of death has not been revealed yet.
Several close ones and relatives have offered their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Andrew’s family to stay strong in this difficult time.
Andrew’s teammates and friends remember him as fearless and generous, a person who pushed others to be better while always offering a smile or a helping hand.
He was the kind of person who made an impression everywhere he went and whose presence brought encouragement and humor to the people around him.
A funeral service to celebrate Andrew’s exceptional life will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Emmanuel Church, 41 Dearborn Street, Newport, RI.
Instead of flowers, Andrew’s family requests the memorial contributions be made to a college fund established for Beckett O’Donnell via UGIFT529.com using UGIFT code: TOX-829. Or a donation in Andrew’s memory to Newport Mental Health.
To leave an online condolence, please visit www.LeskoFuneralHome.com.
