Donnel Washington, beloved father of a loving blended family of eight children, passed peacefully through the doorway of eternity to another expression of life. Donnel’s “… countenance reflected the contentment of a faithful servant who, after a job well done, closed his eyes in sleep to rest from the toil of the day.”

Donnel possessed a strong and unfaltering love for his family, which he imparted to daughters: Kendall, LaTeia, Tiana, Ravyn, and sons: Donnel, Jr., DeAngelo, Ronel, and Dondre. His abiding love in the importance of family unity was exemplified in his presence at the Washington and Arnold family functions, birthdays and holiday celebrations, cookouts, and reunion picnics. Participation at his children’s birthday parties was a tremendous source of enjoyment and forever memories. He relished taking part in his grandchildren’s birthday party outings and school games and graduations.

Donnel Montel Washington was born on January 26, 1966, to Sandra Arnold and Matthew Washington in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended and graduated from John F. Kennedy High School in June 1985 and remained an “Eagle” forever! As an only child he was loved, supported, and cared for by a supportive family and community. This nurtured and ingrained love fueled his passion for his Skate Family Community.

First Gen X Hall of Fame Skater and OG Forever! Skating made him a force of character. He was a familiar face in the local rinks: Blue Goose, Woodhill Park, Seven Bells, Southgate, USA Wickliffe and local and national Skate Jam Parties. His dedication, commitment, and boundless energy made him a “Skating Legend.”

Donnel never met a stranger. He was a friend to all who knew him as Swel Nel, maybe Swel, Swello and finally Hello-Swello! His love and enthusiasm were like a flame it touched everyone he encountered. Donnel possessed a certain degree of obstinacy that focused on maintaining resilience through life’s experiences and hardships. This served him well in all his life endeavors!

On February 28, 2026, Donnel ‘put on invisibility’ and ‘rolled to the rink of eternity’! But his legacy lives on. We grieve, yet we celebrate the magnificent legacy of love he left to us. He is loved by many, and his memories are cherished by his fiancée Dee Andrews; children: Kendall, Donnel, Jr., LaTeia, Tiana, DeAngelo, Ravyn, Ronel, and Dondre. Grandchildren: Khary Donnel, Kyaire Elijah, NiKco, Cody, Khaidyn, Eleigh, and Kei ’Lani. A host of relatives and friends who loved him dearly. Our memories of Donnel can never be erased.

Lovingly Submitted,

The Family

“And as you journey into outer space
May the angels help lead the way.
May the prayers that your families make
Shine upon your soul to keep you safe.
And all the homies that done passed away
Be there to greet you as you pass the gates,
And as you head to the tunnel’s light,
We hope it leads to eternal life.”

Scarface and Tupac

Gone But Never Forgotten.