Michael Lane O'Connell

Michael Lane O'Connell, age 78, of Hudson, Florida, passed away on March 30, 2026. Born in South Bend, Indiana, Michael lived a full and vibrant life, centered on his deep love for family and friends, his laughter, and the connections he cherished.

Michael worked at Magnavox in Fort Wayne as a Technical Supervisor, where he built a career through dedication and hard work. Outside of work, he was known for truly enjoying life. He loved golfing, sharing great meals, playing games, cheering for his sports teams Cubs, Bears, Bucs, Notre Dame and the Tampa Bay Lightning, singing karaoke with friends, and most of all, laughing and enjoying time with the people he loved.

He will be remembered for his loud, funny demeanor, his kind and warm heart, and his ability to bring joy into any room. One of the many memories he passed down was a playful poem he loved to share:
"Ish bibbli outen bouten,
Boo bat, deet'n date'n,
Slide, slide, nanny goat,
Nanny goat squat, tweet, tweet!"

It is a small but lasting example of the humor and light he carried throughout his life.

Michael was a proud Vietnam Veteran and a recipient of the Purple Heart. During his service, he survived a life-threatening injury when a bullet came within 1/16" of an inch from his heart. In an extraordinary turn of fate, a letter written by his mother, tucked into his chest pocket, helped save his life. That letter and the bullet remain cherished symbols of both his survival and the deep love of his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sherri O'Connell; his daughters, Dawn Ghori and Kara Lumsden; his brother, Ralph Wilks; his grandchildren, Mahala Lumsden, Humza Ghori, and Skyler Lumsden; and his nieces and nephews, Bart O'Connell, Bre O'Connell, Melinda Schubert, Jeff O'Connell, Kelly O'Connell, Tom O'Connell and Laura Baciu.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Era Ludene Wilks; his father, Bartley O'Connell; his stepfather, Charles Wilks; his sister, Sandra O'Connell; and his brothers, Patrick O'Connell and Ron O'Connell.

Michael will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his kindness, his laughter, and the love he shared so freely with family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, with plans currently being made for the weekend of April 11 or April 18. Updates will be shared with family and friends as details are finalized.