James-O'Connor-Obituary

James John "Jim" O'Connor

Chicago, Illinois

1937 - 2023

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Chicago, Illinois

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James "Jim" John O'Connor, 86, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away on July 31, 2023. He was born on March 15, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, to Fred and Helen O'Connor. Jim is survived by his beloved wife Ellen, née Lawlor, and their children Fred (Jill), James (Julie), and Elizabeth Cole (Michael)....

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I'm proud to say Jim & I shared the same surname. college and love of Chicago. He lived those similarities in the right way. I pray his soul rests well, as it should. Don O'Connor Holy Cross'58

Dear Ellen, On behalf of myself and my late Sande I wish to extend my condolences. Jim was introduced into my life via Sande and you. Jim was always the most generous and inclusive friend to both me and Sande. He also always exhibited the highest standards of friendship and excellence as a man, a Catholic, a husband, an executive and a litany of much more. I am grateful to a have met him and been in his company. He had all the character and charm to which any man could aspire. Slainte!

On the behalf of Armstrong World Industries board and mangement team: We are very sorry to hear about Mr. O'Connor. He served for several years during his "retirement" as the chairman of the board of Armstrong World Industries - spreading his wisdom and knowledge throughout our management team and organization and we will be forever grateful for his leadership and service. Very sorry to hear this news. AWI

Jim , a true leader in every sense of the word. He cared about his community , his country, his industry and Chicago and its underserved population. He was respected without reservation by his colleagues, the Com Ed families and city business and civic leaders . He was perhaps the first CEO in the public utility industry to address the issue of drubs and alcohol in the workplace . He made Chicago a better place to live and to work.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. He will be missed !!

As one son of the ole sod to another..."May the wind be always at your back, may the road rise to meet you and may you be in Heaven before the devil knows you're gone"

Dear Ellen, God bless your dear husband and peace and blessings to you and your family. You will recall Jim was both a friend and colleague of mine when he gave invaluable counsel as a member of the Board of Talman Home Federal Savings. And, I will never forget his and your courtesies when our family met yours for a day when vacationing at the Hilton Head Resort many years ago. And now Ellen, may Jim rest in the peace of the Lord which he so richly deserves. Jerry (and Betty ) Croke

Sorry to hear about my old classmate. Jim was truly well liked and elected our senior class president. I'll offer a special prayer at Mass for the repose of his great soul, and for the consolation of his beloved family.