Ipswich – Brian A. O’Donnell, 55, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at the Kaplan House in Danvers, surrounded by love and light, after a very brief illness.
Born and raised in Westfield, MA, Brian was the son of Marilyn O’Donnell of Westfield and the late J. Brian O’Donnell. He graduated from Westfield High School and went on to study Graphic Design at Westfield State College.
From a young age, Brian found peace in the quiet spring mornings spent fishing with his father at Lake Seymour in Vermont—moments that became lifelong treasures. That same gentle, attentive spirit later defined his own approach to fatherhood. He grew up part of the tight-knit Colony Circle crew, where childhood meant dirt bike rides until the streetlights came on, neighborhood adventures and nicknames that cemented lifelong friendships. These memories remained some of Brian’s favorites to share—especially with his children, Finn and Emma—as he lovingly recounted tales of life in the 80s, nostalgic tales of a simpler time.
Brian had a natural talent for storytelling—especially the legendary one about breaking his nose during a hockey game. Though the injury wasn’t funny, the countless times he retold the story brought joy and laughter. Whether holding court at the dinner table or telling stories on a car ride to Finn and Emma, he had a gift for turning ordinary moments into unforgettable ones. He was also an incredibly gifted drummer (whether behind a full kit or simply tapping out a rhythm at the table), and a talented artist—quietly creating works that he rarely shared but that were deeply personal.
Professionally, Brian was a creative force beginning his career designing signage for Puffer’s Hair Salon in Westfield before thriving in the apparel and headwear industry with roles at Logo Athletic, Reebok and Old Time Sports. He truly shined in custom headwear, where his vision and artistry stood out. Colleagues remember his calm, thoughtful presence and his role as a mentor, teammate, and above all, a true friend.
In the early ’90s, work brought Brian to Mattapoisett, sparking his love of the ocean. He later moved to South Boston, and eventually settled in Ipswich with his wife, Tricia, where they raised their two children. Recent years, Brian launched 42 North Brand, a growing local apparel and headwear business. Working from home allowed him to fully embrace the role he valued most: being present for his family, whether at games, practices, and events – thrilled to see Finn thrive on the basketball court this spring, and honored to be there to watch Emma walk the stage at her 8th-grade graduation in June. He cherished family traditions: Easter sunrise service, Thanksgiving mornings (his favorite holiday and the day he chose to propose on Cranes Beach), game nights, and being the first one behind the kids on Christmas morning to witness their joy.
Brian’s favorite place was poolside with family and friends,’80s tunes playing, laughter in the air, and watching Finn and Emma with their friends. Those joyful, simple moments were everything to him.
Brian also leaves behind his loving wife, Tricia (Mulcahy) O’Donnell, and their two children, Finnegan James and Emma Lucy, all of Ipswich. He is also survived by his two sisters: Stephanie Martell, with her children Grace and Patrick; and Tara Sasser and her husband Butch, all of Westfield. He is lovingly remembered by his aunt Frances Bogan, cousin Peter Simm, Sister-in-law, Rebecca Mulcahy and partner Ronald MacIntyre and predeceased by his Parents-in-law, Dorothy & James Mulcahy and many friends from childhood, his career, the Ipswich community and beyond—friendships that touched every chapter of his life. Brian’s thread of friendship is woven deeply and widely. He will be remembered for his kindness, quick wit and quiet creativity, deep love of music and the joy he brought to everyone fortunate enough to know him. But above all, he was a devoted father –his greatest pride and joy lived in the hearts of Finn and Emma.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 10:00–11:30 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:30 AM at Our Lady of Hope Parish, 1 Linebrook Road, Ipswich, MA.