Thomas W. O'Connor

He was the best dad anyone could have. To give the gift of teaching your kids to be independent and not care what anyone else cares or says as long as your are doing (mostly) the right thing is a way to survivor. As I reflect on the fact that I am almost his age. I am sorry I used to tease him about the way his knees sounded when he got up. Or about the five year plan, which of course I am still incapable of doing but am okay with my one year plan which seems to be working out fine. Love you...

Just thinking of Tom on Veterans' Day. I was always impressed how Tom worked to preserve the honor and dignity of the American flag. He would replace flags that had seen better days, and make sure they were displayed properly and proudly.I think of Tom each time I drive by his house with fond memories. A salute to a veteran and friend to all!

My words can only have the strength of an echo next to
my brother Stephen's, but I would like to add them anyway
to honor the kindness, the forthrightness, the -- welcome --
this special guy was. With that greeting "Hello, babe!"
whenever we got together as family, you were right away
"in like Flint" -- accepted, embraced, one of the crowd.
He WAS absolutely unconditional with his love and in his
willingness to go all out for you...when I was a Harvard
student, a long...

Mr. O'Connor,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country when you served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

I was a neighbor of Tom's on Collamore Street. When I moved in he made sure that I was introduced to everyone on the street! He was always so happy, cheerful and a true gentleman. He had such a great outlook and I always enjoyed talking and laughing with him. My deepest sympathy on your loss, I know he will be deeply missed.

Tom and Family:
I am sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad/Grandfather. I can only imagine how much he will be missed. My deepest sympathy to you all.

With Love,
Betty Wagner

Growing up I can remember the anticipation that would build up ahead of a visit to Chicago by Uncle Tommy to see his mom Loretta, sisters Anne and Mary, and brother John (my father). Even though I was quite young, I can clearly remember the joy and laughter he brought out in everyone around him.

As the years went by his visits were less frequent, but I was better equipped to understand just how special a person Uncle Tommy was. We had the chance to cross paths halfway around the world...

We are very saddened to hear of Uncle Tom's passing. We loved him dearly and have such fond memories of him, the most recent being Erin's wedding in Carmel where he served as the master of ceremonies and gave Erin away. He had us all in stitches at the reception and brought a little bit of our dad back to us with that O'Connor charm. Our hearts go out to Aunt Mickey, Tom, Tim, Maryanne, Eileen, and Susan. On behalf of the Paul O'Connor family, we send you our condolences and love.

Although it's been quite a while since I've seen Uncle Tom, his lasting memories with each visit remain strong.

Upon reflection, there was never a time that I can remember, when Uncle Tom was in a room that he did not steal the show with his personality, charisma and charm. For that we should all be thankful. He made a difference in people's lives without even noticing it.

To my cousins, each and every one, Matt, Brian and I send our sincerest condolences, prayers and thoughts....