Roger Matthew O'Donnell, age 69, passed away on Thursday May 23, 2013 at Bridgeport Hospital after a long and brave medical battle. Born in Bridgeport on August 26, 1943 Roger was the son of the late Matthew and Lillian Wheeler O'Donnell. He was the first graduating class of the Stratford High – Bunnell High School Class of 1961 and was on the swim team. He was a graduate of University of Bridgeport receiving an Associates Degree in Graphic Arts and his Bachelors in Photography. He was an artist and photographer who enjoyed developing his photos in his home dark room. An avid enthusiast and follower of diverse, avant-garde art and music from the beat generation of Poets to the current up and coming underground bands of today. He was an Eagle Scout and was a Cub Scout Leader of Pack 202 Wilcoxson School. He had been employed at the AC Marble Company in Bridgeport, and as a retail manager in the photo department at Caldor's in Milford for twenty eight years and also had been employed at Bed Bath and Beyond. He was a faithful member at Stratford United Methodist Church. He was a loyal reader of mystery novels and an animal lover. His black cat Susie gave him much comfort in the past few years. Roger was very happy to reconnect with his high school friends at school reunions in recent years. He was a loving, loyal son, husband, father and brother. The rock of his family who always provided them with security and support. His biggest accomplishment was his three children whom he loved and adored more than anything. His favorite times were spent with his children, whether it was camping out in the backyard, sharing his knowledge of art and music, cheering his two sons on at T-ball or talking about current events. He also loved to snuggle with his special needs daughter and was a patient father who gave his children the freedom to follow their own passions. He will be terribly missed by his family and friends. Survivors include his beloved wife; Patricia Rutherford O'Donnell, his loving children; two sons, Ryan Matthew O'Donnell and his wife Liz of New Haven and Andrew David O'Donnell of Stratford, a daughter, Lydia Ann O'Donnell of Stratford, a devoted brother, Raymond A. O'Donnell and his companion Yolanda Verrilli of Stratford and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Dr. Charles Kochan, Dr. Alphonse Luciano and Dr. Fienzeig as well as the staff at Bridgeport Hospital and Davita of Milford for their many years of wonderful care. Friends and relatives are invited to attend funeral services on Thursday May 30, 2013 at 11 am. In the Stratford United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Koonea Lee, Pastor officiating. Burial will follow in Union Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday May 29, 2013 from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Dennis & D'Arcy – Abriola & Kelemen Funeral Home, 2611 Main St. Stratford. In lieu of flowers donations in his memory can be made to The Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation 302 West Main St. Avon, CT 06001 or to www.cdlsusa.org.