Donald J. Killelea

DONALD J. KILLELEA

McALLEN- We are deeply saddened at the loss of Donald Joseph Killelea, who passed away the evening of December 2, 2024 after a short illness.

Born September 16, 1924, to James and Elizabeth Killelea near Seneca, Illinois, he graduated from Ottawa High School in 1942. Donald served in the United States Merchant Marines for 40 months as a radio operator and held the rank of ensign in the US maritime service. He enrolled in LaSalle, Peru, Oglesby College in September, 1947. He then attended Loyola University, Stritch School of Medicine.

On a blind date he met the lovely Jean Marie Hebel. They were married August 5, 1950, a Jubilee year, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Peru, Illinois. Donald and Jean resided in Oak Park, Illinois while Don continued his studies. Upon earning his medical degree, he joined the Air Force and set sail for France, October 1954. He was stationed as a physician at Orly Field just outside Paris. His wife and daughter joined him there and they lived in Ste. Genevieve des Bois for about a year. Upon returning to the United States he did a residency at Hines VA Hospital while residing in Riverside, Illinois. He was a very accomplished Radiologist and was later certified in Nuclear Medicine.

Don and Jean opened their hearts and home and adopted three babies. As their family grew they would often take a winter vacation in Mexico. They enjoyed the climate, good food and friendly people of Mexico. Upon retirement in 1991, they moved to McAllen, Texas. They attended the Sunday morning Traditional Latin Mass every week at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church in Pharr. They held a strong Faith and were devoted to the Lord. His favorite prayer was the Our Father. Don and Jean celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary August 5, 2021. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, sister, and son, John Francis Killelea. Jean Marie passed away November 20, 2021 at their home in McAllen after a long illness.

Don is survived by daughters, Susan Marie (James) Whitsitt and Kathleen Marie (Scott) Lear; a son Timothy Andrew (Pam) Killelea; a brother Francis Killelea; six grandchildren; and four great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Pharr Oratory of St. Phillip Neri, in care of St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, 505 S. Ironwood Pharr, Texas 78577.

Visitation will begin at 11 a.m., followed by a 12 noon funeral mass Monday, December 16, 2024, at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church in Pharr. Cremation will take place at Memorial Cremation Center in Edinburg.

Funeral services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in San Juan.