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William O'Connell Obituary
The youngest son of Hilda and Elias (Jack) O'Connell, Bill was born in Dover, N.H., and graduated from Dover High School, the University of New Hampshire, Durham, and earned a graduate degree at The American University, Washington, D.C.
He was a contract food service executive for Saga Corporation, Marriott Corporation, and Morrison Restaurants and relocated to Hiram, Ohio, Buckhannon, West Va., Somers, Conn., Halifax, Nova Scotia and Newtown, Pa., during his long career. Bill was passionate about mentoring the people he worked with and took great pride in being a part of their personal and professional successes. He lived in Newtown for over 30 years before moving to Hampton just a few years ago.
He was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Hampton, and enjoyed being near the ocean, music, family pets, and especially visiting with family and his many friends. He was an avid fan of fried clams and many sports including the Red Sox and Ohio State football.
Survivors include his wife, Sally (Millner); daughters, Jennifer Payne, Bowling Green, Ky., and Kathleen O'Connell, Hampton; brother, Elias (Jack), Jr. and sister-in-law, Pauline O'Connell, Dover; and stepdaughter, Allison and son-in-law, Michael Fineberg, Havertown, Pa. He is also survived by nephew, Steven O'Connell, Marietta, Ga.; niece, Diane Landau, Overland Park, Kan.; and five grandchildren, Danielle Simeone, Nottingham, Billy Payne, Bowling Green, Ky., Christopher Simeone, Newtown, Pa., Seth Payne, Bowling Green, Ky., and Anita Fineberg, Havertown, Pa.
Bill was preceded in death by his first wife, Sally (Barton), as well as his mother, Hilda, and father, Elias.
At his request, a private family service will be held in Ohio.
He was greatly loved and will be sorely missed.
Memorial contributions are welcome to the Hospice Group who made it possible for Bill to spend his last days at home. Checks may be made out to Rockingham County VNA and Hospice, 137 Epping Road, Exeter, NH 03833 in memory of William O'Connell.
Visit www.fosters.com/obits for an online guest book.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William O'Connell
Susan[Greg] Sutherland
July 11, 2011
Words fail as I think of Bill. He was like a Dad to me. Always concerned,protective, adoring, kind, loving and gentle. I miss him every day, but know his work here was done. Bill was an amazing husband, father, brother and friend. We are all so much richer for having known him. Sally, Jennifer, Cathy and Jack.... my heart goes out to you all, as I know what you all meant to him. He was so very proud of his family. Rest in peace"Dad", a peace you so deserve. I love you for always.
Michelle Cowan
June 30, 2011
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Bill's family, and especially to Sally. We truly loved Bill from the first time we met him and will miss his clever sense of humor and genuine smile. Bill, you will forever be remembered in our hearts. Bob, Michelle, Natalie and Reanna Cowan
June 27, 2011
Bill was truly a "mentor" before it became fashionable to be one. He did it because he cared about the whole person not just the employee. We will sorely miss him.
Our condolences to his family.
Rich and Janice Cooper
Mary & Vic Ciepiel
June 24, 2011
Bill, you have been our friend forever! We have so many wonderful memories of the times we spent with you in Newton, times with your girls, your dogs, the many restaurants we shared along with Broadway Shows, and the one special time where you made us all sit in your living room and played Willie Nelson's "You are always on my Mind" as loud as you could get the sound to go. Well, Bill, you will always be on our minds. Love to your family.
June 23, 2011
Bill's part in the work world was always impressive the way he got things done . As a friend , the same. He could always be counted on. Thanks Bill. We'll miss you.
Ace and Bobbie SC
Stephen Embry
June 22, 2011
My condolences to the O'Connell family. although I had not Known Mr O'Connell very long he touched a place in my heart and he will be truly missed. Rest in peace my friend.
Jim ans Jean
June 22, 2011
We will miss Bill, he was a great brother-in-law and friend. Sally, Jennifer, Kathy and family, you are in our prayer's.
Kathy
June 22, 2011
Miss you so much dad but I know you finally are at peace. Love you forever.
Steven and Julie O'Connell
June 22, 2011
Loved ones are never really gone, they are FOREVER in our hearts. Uncle Bill will be greatly missed! You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jennifer
June 22, 2011
Miss you Dad!
Justine Staub
June 21, 2011
Sally,
My sincere condolences on Bill's passing. I'm thinking about you and my heart goes out to you. Justine
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