Janell Patricia Donnelly was born to Joseph Donnelly and Jacqueline John on March 19, 1982 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Janell was a happy, healthy baby. A delight to the family. On Saturday, December 3, 2022, she unexpectedly passed away at her home in Greenfield, Wisconsin at the age of 40.

Janell was a proud member of the Oneida Tribe of Wisconsin. She started her education at COA. She later attended MPS schools and completed her education at Hamilton High School, earning her diploma.

Her love of sports started young, passionately cheering for her Bucks, Packers, Badgers, Longhorns and the Brewers. She was a lifelong athlete, winning many awards while participating in Special Olympics. Her sports included track and field, softball, basketball, volleyball. swimming, bowling, and tee ball.

Janell loved music. As a child and teen, she would dance longer, faster and with more enthusiasm than anyone, at any venue. At the age of 15, she became a member of the Exceptional Chorus. She performed with them throughout the years, making friends, performing, and traveling. Her passion for creative arts continued throughout her life, she was very talented and always enjoyed art. Her creations decorate the homes of many family members.

Most recently, she was employed at one of her favorite restaurants, McDonalds. She was also part of the Goodwill program that helped her learn valuable skills. She was very active between work and her other activities and made many good friends and colleagues along the way.

Janell was also a seasoned traveler. The Exception Chorus took annual trips, but she also enjoyed traveling to various states and other countries including Mexico and Canada.

Janell is survived by her devoted Dad, Joseph Donnelly, his wife, Norel, Mother, Jacqueline John, sisters, Justine Donnelly (Zach Derksen), Julia Remington (Christian Remington) and brother Douglas Ellingson (Bridget Lyons). She is also survived by her beloved nephews and niece: Dominic, Ke'von, Kevin, Jayce, Logan and Ellie.

She is preceded in death by grandparents: Harold and Betty Donnelly, Hyson and Ramona John, and big brother, Joshua John.

Visitation Thursday, December 15, 2022 from 4PM to 7PM at THE FUNERAL HOME. Vigil service to follow, at 7PM. Additional visitation Friday, December 16, 2022 from 10AM to 11AM at St. Charles Borromeo Church, 3100 W. Parnell Ave. Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM with interment at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery to follow.