Boca Raton Mourns Loss of Real Estate Visionary Keith O’Donnell

Boca Raton, FL – The South Florida business community is mourning the loss of Keith O’Donnell, a prominent real estate and business leader, who passed away on November 28, 2025, at the age of 74. O’Donnell was a principal at Avison Young and left an indelible mark on the region through his extensive involvement in significant local projects and his dedicated service to various community organizations.

Key Takeaways

• Keith O’Donnell, a respected figure in Boca Raton’s real estate and business scene, has died at 74.
• He played a crucial role in major local developments and served on numerous influential boards.
• O’Donnell is remembered as a titan of the business community and a cherished mentor.

A Legacy in South Florida Real Estate

Throughout his distinguished career spanning decades in Palm Beach County, Keith O’Donnell was instrumental in shaping the landscape of South Florida. His notable contributions include facilitating the sale of Office Depot’s global headquarters, involvement with Mizner Park, the Lynn Insurance Group headquarters, and providing advisory services for FAU’s Research Park. He also contributed to Lynn University’s masterplan and the acquisition of the Lynn Cancer Institute, among other significant endeavors.

Community Leadership and Impact

O’Donnell’s influence extended far beyond real estate transactions. He was a dedicated public servant and community leader. He served as chair and board member of the Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce, where he was lauded as a “titan of the South Florida business community” and a “trusted leader whose guidance and vision helped shape the direction of our organization and our region.”

His commitment to the community also saw him serve on the City of Delray Beach’s Mayor’s Congress Avenue Task Force Executive Committee, the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Board of Trustees, the Boca Raton Downtown Vision Committee, and the Boca Raton Planning and Zoning Board. He was also a member of the Palm Beach Business Development Board and Connected Warriors Inc.

The Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce echoed the sentiment, calling him a “giant of the South Florida business community.”

Personal Reflections

His daughter, Carolina Rush, who is the membership director for the Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce, shared heartfelt memories on social media. She described her father not just as one of the best in the real estate world, but as “THE best.” She credited him with teaching her the value of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of being a cheerleader for career aspirations.

Keith O’Donnell is survived by his wife, Diane; daughters Carolina and Melanie; and stepdaughters Alexandra and Adrianna, along with other family members. A service was held at Lynn University’s Wold Performing Arts Center, followed by a remembrance toast.

Sources

• Boca Raton Real Estate Leader Keith O’Donnell Dies at 74, Boca Raton Magazine.