William Michael "Mike" McDonnell

William Michael "Mike" McDonnell, age 67, of Emporia, Kansas, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026.

Mike was born on January 19, 1959, in Garnett, Kansas, the son of John E. McDonnell and Betty J. (Edwards) McDonnell.

He was united in marriage to Rhonda Spencer on November 11, 1978. This marriage was blessed with three children, Justin, Jerrica, and Jamie. Together they built a life centered on hard work, family, and providing for those they loved.

Mike spent his career working with his hands. He began in the oil fields before transitioning into maintenance work, a profession that suited both his skill set and work ethic. A true jack of all trades, there was little he couldn't repair or figure out. He was the kind of person who could be called in the middle of the night to fix a problem at work, and he never hesitated to answer. Throughout much of his life he believed that providing for his family was simply what needed to be done. His dedication and dependability earned the respect and appreciation of his coworkers, who knew they could always count on him.

Those who knew Mike also knew he would do just about anything for anyone. He wasn't one to seek recognition, but he quietly showed up whenever he was needed. He carried himself with a contagious smile, a steady demeanor, and a willingness to lend a hand that left a lasting impression on friends, family, and coworkers alike. Mike was also known for his unmistakable, contagious laugh that could light up a room and make everyone around him smile. His quick wit and playful sense of humor kept people on their toes, and if he gave you a hard time, you could be sure it was his way of showing he cared.

Of all the roles Mike held throughout his life, none meant more to him than being a father. That pride only grew when he became a grandfather, a title he considered one of life's greatest honors. His family was always at the center of everything he worked so hard to provide for.

When he wasn't working, Mike enjoyed watching football. He was a devoted fan of Notre Dame and the Kansas City Chiefs. Family members often joked they didn't need to watch the game themselves to know how it was going, they could simply listen to the reactions coming from the basement while everyone else was upstairs. His cheers, frustrations, and colorful play-by-play told the story of every game.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, John McDonnell; father and mother- in-law, Jimmie and Lucretia Spencer.

He is survived by his mother, Betty J. McDonnell; his wife of 47 years, Rhonda McDonnell of the home; his three children Justin (Rachel) McDonnell of Emporia, Kansas, Jerrica (Cody) Preeo of Emporia, Kansas; and Jamie (Gabriel) Murray of Topeka, Kansas; 11 Grandchildren, Aspen, Colston, Kassidy, Dylan, Maci, Miley, Maddyn, Kasen, Breckyn, McKayla, and Annikah; brother, Dick (Colette) McDonnell of Lawrence, Kansas; sisters, Linda (Jim) Wolfe Littleton, Colorado, and Barbara (Rick) Bennett of Tonganoxie, Kansas; Mike will also be remembered by many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the Feuerborn Family Funeral Service Chapel, 219 S. Oak Street, Garnett, Kansas. Burial will follow in Welda Cemetery, Welda, Kansas.

Memorials in Mike's honor may be made to Anderson County High School Athletics and left in the care of Feuerborn Family Funeral Service.

Condolences may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com