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Michael O'Connell Obituary
Born in Buffalo, N.Y., Dec. 21, 1949, he was the the son of the late John F. O'Connell and Dorothy McKale O'Connell. He graduated from Rockland Community College and attended Pace University.
He served in the National Guard for six years and retired from the Gwinnett County Police force in 2005 after 26 years of service. He was passionate about helping others and loved his career. He was an off ice official for the Atlanta Gladiators from 2003-22 and played on the Crusaders hockey team and other teams in the local Atlanta league from 1984 to 2021. He enjoyed teaching his grandson Tio how to skate and cultivating his love of hockey. He was a big Buffalo Bills fan.
After retiring, Mike was busy "giving back" to Lavonia. He was instrumental in starting the Lavonia Community Garden, was on the Friends of the Library Committee, unloaded trucks for the church monthly food give away, helped supply food for the food pantry and helped set up tents for local festivals, etc. He taught his son to "live his passion," to be an ethical and honest person and to take care of his family. He enjoyed international travel and frequently visited his son and family while they lived abroad in various countries.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Susan (Krug); his son, Mike; daughter-in-law, Sara; grandson, Tio; granddaughter, Astra; brother, John O'Connell; sister-in- law, Heather O'Connell; and nieces and nephews.
There will be a celebration of his life March 4 from 1-4 p.m. at the Lavonia Community Center at 39 Poole St. in Lavonia.
Mike would have preferred that, in lieu of sending flowers, you would reach out and help, with kindness or financially, someone in need.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael O'Connell
Dan Ciavardini
January 12, 2024
I just found out today of Mike's passing I knew Mike from playing ice hockey and working with him on the ECHL off ice officials crew.He was always a true gentleman and kind soul. Shalom my friend.
Barbara Grastat Karnitz
March 1, 2023
Mike & Susan have been special friends since our days at Royer Realty & Mike's time on the police force. When he was promoted to Captain, so many friends & colleagues were there to honor him. But Mike wasn't about receiving accolades. He & Susan were always about pitching in & helping others. Mike could make you laugh. He used to pull pranks on his friends but he could take pranks pulled on him as well!!
If you needed help, both he and Susan had your back. Heaven is smiling & very lucky to have Mike as a new resident. The rest of us will count our lucky stars to have had him in our life!
Barbara Grastat Karnitz
Melba Chelko
February 23, 2023
We are so sorry to hear about Mike. We will miss his smile and sense of humor. He was a good friend, father and husband. With our love,
Dan and Melba Chelko
Gene Toney
February 8, 2023
I am very sorry to hear this. I worked with Mike on Morning Watch (Southside), CID and SIS. He had his hands full on Morning Watch in the early 90's dealing with me, Brian Reddy and several others. Even with all of the practical jokes, laughing and kidding around, he kept us focused and safe. We had each other's back. I will remember him fondly.
Brian Reddy
February 7, 2023
Mike O´Connell, there isn´t enough room on this for me to say what I feel. How do you squeeze 31years of working with a boss you loved. Worked for the man many years, I drove him nuts, but I know he loved me. I´m going to miss this man, Rest In Peace Brother.
Mary Ann Gerity
February 3, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful person. I am shocked and so so sorry for your loss
Andrew Graham
February 3, 2023
So sorry to hear of this. I didn't have the opportunity to know Mike and Sue well, but it was obvious from the start that he was a a great man.
Bob Strachan
February 2, 2023
I got to know Mike through a mutual friend. I played hockey against him and shared multiple years being an Off Ice Official in Guinnett with Mike. RIP friend.
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