Stephen "Steve" Edward O'Donnell

Stephen, “Steve,” Edward O’Donnell, age 61, of Harrisburg, died on Sunday, June 8, 2025. Steve was born on Monday, April 6, 1964, in Harrisburg to Evelyn Mae (Tatem) O’Donnell and the late Robert Hugh O’Donnell.

Steve’s survivors include his daughter: Jocelyn Paige O’Donnell and her husband Walter of Lake Forest Park, WA; his granddaughter: Hadley; his mother: Evelyn Mae (Tatem) O’Donnell; his three siblings: Robert O’Donnell Jr and his wife Priscilla of Columbia, MD, Michael O’Donnell and his wife Mary Ann of Middletown, Kathleen Gross and her husband Chris of York; and several nieces and nephews.

Steve graduated from Middletown Area High School. A self-taught and exceptionally gifted musician, Steve was a driving force in the underground music scene. 

Steve’s music he wrote and  his guitar work helped shape the early grindcore and extreme metal genre through his influential band Exit-13, signed to Relapse Records, and other boundary-pushing projects like Hog Caller and Pica

His musicianship was bold and unrelenting, marked by technical experimentation and raw intensity. Steve was heavily influenced by blues and jazz,  incorporating a variety of genres within his distinct sound. 

More than just a performer, Steve demanded growth from everyone he played with. His influence extended far beyond the stage or recording studio, leaving a lasting mark on the scene.

Steve was endlessly creative and artistic, with an often offbeat sense of humor. He shared his deep love of classic films and alternative culture with those around him, sparking curiosity and appreciation in others. Unconcerned with trends or expectations, he never cared to “keep up with the Joneses.”

Steve was selfless and deeply compassionate, always willing to lend a hand when someone needed help. He also had a natural talent for fixing things. He had a tender heart for animals and a generous spirit that left an impression on everyone he met. With wide-ranging interests, a resilient nature, and a relentless drive to create, Steve was one of a kind — unforgettable to those lucky enough to know him.

Steve was diagnosed with stage 4 liver cirrhosis. He was later diagnosed with AML, a battle he ultimately fought into remission.

Though distance kept them physically apart, Steve remained a constant presence in his daughter’s life. When Jocelyn first had her daughter, Hadley, Steve called every day to check in. His support was unwavering, even across distance.

Steve was a talented artist, loving father and grandfather, a devoted son and brother, and a man whose humor, creativity, and deep love for his family and friends will continue to live on in their memories.

Steve’s family will be celebrating his life August 2nd 12-4:00 PM at the Great Room at Jo Jo’s pizza in Hummelstown, PA. All are welcome. More information can be found here: Celebration of Life Honoring Steve O’Donnell.

Interment will be at the family’s convenience. Cremation was private.

Contributions in celebration of Steve’s life can be made to the Hummelstown Food Pantry: Hummelstown Food Pantry, c/o Zion Lutheran Church, 100 West Main Street, Hummelstown, PA 17036; https://www.hummelstownfoodpantry.org/.

Steve’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. View his memorial photo, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.