Michael O'Connell

Indianapolis - Michael "OC" O'Connell, 63, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2021. OC was born in Indianapolis to Joseph Francis O'Connell and Rita Hoerl O'Connell who have preceded him in death. He graduated from Scecina Memorial High School in 1975. He spent most of his management career at Sears, Roebuck & Co. and ended as the manager of the Kittles-North Outlet Fishers Store.

There will be visitation and Mass on February 6, 2021 at Holy Spirit Church, 7243 E 10th St, Indianapolis, IN 46219.

Visitation from 9:00 am - 11:00 am. Mass at 11:00 am.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Indianapolis Star from Feb. 4 to Feb. 5, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael O'Connell

43 Entries

Brendan Connolly

November 17, 2021

It is with great regret that I have just found out of the passing of such a lovely and friendly person. It is so strange that I met Mike while sitting beside him on an American Airlines flight on his way to Ireland for a holiday in 2019, I was going home to Ireland after a holiday in Las Vegas with my wife and twins. I had such a great chat with Mike and he was showing me his route he had planned for a long time in his Ireland tourist book with post it's on certain pages, he was quite nervous about driving in Ireland on the left side and the narrow roads we have over here but I reassured him that he would be fine and we had motorways here also. The time flyed on the flight and by the time we arrived at Dublin airport I felt like I knew Mike all my life ,such a wonderful man. Sadly missed by a friend here in Ireland even though it was a short friendship, my thoughts are with his wife and family at this hard time and may he rest in peace, Brendan

Brendan Connolly

November 17, 2021

Laureanne Nordstrom

August 10, 2021

Much respect to Michael O'Connell for the way he treated everyone. I only knew him briefly when he showed his heart of gold after my brother Paul died. I wish I had known of his passing so I could have paid my respects at his funeral.

Sharon Neal

February 8, 2021

OC will be dearly missed by this household. OC was a persona like none other. His love of life and a gathering were prevalent in his actions towards others. I first met Mike through our oldest son, Craig Neal, who worked at Sears. Craig found his Older Brother to run around with. Kevin and Randy also worked with Mike at Sears. He became a regular at parties...especially the ones held at our house when Jay and I were on a trip. :) Mike was a grounder. He listened and did the logical OC verbiage routine and grounded the thoughts behind the conversation. Wise beyond his years through personal life experience. Instead of giving me a nick name as he did others, he called me Mom Neal. I will miss hearing those words, though I haven't heard them often recently. We will miss his beautiful smile and persona that lit up a room when he entered. Rest well and just know you are dancing with the love of your life, Barb.

Craig Harkins

February 8, 2021

I remember Mike. He left a lasting impression-something I incorporate in any meeting (throughout my life) - Mike was so gracious to my mother Very very respectful. I was 10-14 Mike was a friend of my brother. He was in our home numerous time. You could feel his presence Big laugh, Big smile, very engaging. And when he left EVERYTIME he would stick his head back in the door of our little house and with that booming voice say Thank you Mrs Harkins. He alway made my Mother’s day She was frail and passed some 10yrs latter Mike was angel. Her words not mine Craig Harkins Charleston SC

Janice Wheeler

February 7, 2021

What a lovely memorial service the family held in honor of Mike. We are rejoicing that Mike is in heaven with the Lord, along with his wife and parents. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and passion for life will live on in our hearts and minds.

Mary Colombo-Coffey

February 7, 2021

Mike was a great guy!! Always kind to everyone! Sending prayers & hugs to all of his family. May you all find peace.

Chris smith

February 6, 2021

My deepest sympathy to the O"Connell families. O'C was always kind and generous to all who entered his life

Once you were a friend, it became a life of friendsip

Rest in Peace Mike

Chris Smith
Scecina class of 76

Michael&Nancy Polston & Family

Planted Trees

Michael & Nancy Polston

Planted Trees

Lisa Jones (Mrs Buddy Jones)

February 5, 2021

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. With deepest condolences

Nancy Babcock/Tatum

February 5, 2021

I am terribly sorry to hear about Mike's passing. He was such a generous and giving person having taken care of so many loved ones himself. I met Mike in 1974 while working at McDonald's on Washington St. It was my 1st job after graduating from H.S. One of my fondest memories of Mike was hearing him say, "quarter hounders up!" as he passed the tray up from the grill. I got such a kick out of that. Needless to say, after he had said that a few times, our manager Dave, had had enough and told Mike to stop saying that. I guess he didn't want customers getting any ideas we served anything other than 100% beef. Geesh, really?
I also remember visiting the O'Connell home. Being an only child myself, I so enjoyed meeting all of your sisters. I remember feeling welcomed by your mom and dad too! A lot of activity going on!
I prayed for Mike during his illness and I will continue my prayers for all of you.
I want to "hello" to Paul and Teresa.
Take all the time you need to grieve. There is no time limit.
Blessings to each of you.
Nancy

Bob Runo

February 5, 2021

To Mikes family, My wife and I are heart broken that our good friend has passed and what to extend our condolences to you.
I worked a Sears with Mike. For a time he and I with Tom Navel ran the auto center at Washington Square. I left Sears in 1993 but kept in touch with Mike.
When Barb was on a feeding tube and needed someone to be with her Mike asked if Jane and I could be with her on a Saturday he needed to work at Kittles. We did and it was hard to see such a fighter as Barb was to be in the state she was. Jane and I considered Mike two be a saint. But really he was a husband so in love and totally devoted to his wife. I know Tom Navels wife spent a lot of time with Barb. Good friends.
A fun story about Mike: He and I ran a Mini Indy together. It was recommended to wear band aids on your nipples so they wouldn't become raw. I forgot to do that and told Mike about 9 miles in the run that my nipples were getting sore. He said he had put Vaseline on his. He swiped his hand across his chest and said, "hear Bobby have some of mine." I took it and applied it. It did thew trick. Isn't that classic OC?
In the las 7 year or so I have held what I called Garage Night. It is a gathering of neighbors and Sears friends. OC called these get togethers Safety Meetings. O and Mike Lamb would always come together. Whenever I talked to Mike I called him O. We had a number of Garage Nights (Saftey Meetings) over the years. I treasure the time I had with O, he was one of a kind. I and so many others will miss him. Enjoy your eternity with Barb my brother.
Love,
Bob and Jane

Eternal Friendship Remembrance Bouquet - VASE INCLUDED

With Love, Kelly Kuebel

Sent Flowers

Patricia Dale

February 5, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss. We all loved Mike. I will miss him.

Mark Allen

February 5, 2021

Mike it was a Pleasure knowing you and sharing our years at Scecina and years after that Sleep in Heavenly Peace my Friend

Jan Castelluccio

February 5, 2021

The O'Connell family, I'm very sorry for your loss. i worked with Mike for a few years in the 70's at Sears Washington Square when the store was new. He was a great guy and looked out for my brother several years later when he went to work there. I ran into Mike last February, we exchanged phone numbers and were going to get together and catch up later. Every once in awhile I drive by the old family house off of 10th Street and think I need to call Mike. You always think you have time until you don't. I really wish I had called Mike now! Again I'm very sorry for your loss.

Kristin O'Connell

February 5, 2021

OC was the greatest uncle ever. He and my dad are twin brothers, so Mike has always been present in my life ever since I was born. My earliest memories are of him teaching us to sing Christmas carols to perform for the family at our Christmas Eve gathering every year. Through the years, he always supported me in my dreams. I am a singer/actor, and for years, OC came to see as many of my musicals as he could. OC, I love you so much. It doesn't feel real that you're not here with us anymore, but i know that you will be with us in spirit forever. I hope you are with Barb, Grandma and Grandpa, and Mansuetta now having a wonderful time in heaven. I'll love you forever.

Jan Castelluccio

February 5, 2021

The O'Connell family, I'm very sorry for your loss. i worked with Mike for a few years in the 70's at Sears Washington Square when the store was new. He was a great guy and looked out for my little brother several years later when he went to work there. I ran into Mike last February at Kohl's in Lawrence. We talked about parents and Westminster Village North just up the street. We exchanged phone numbers and were going to get together and catch up later. Then with COVID-19 happening I didn't follow through because my parents were in assisted living. Every once in awhile I drive by the old family house off of 10th Street and think I need to call Mike. You always think you have time until you don't. I really wish I had called Mike now! Again I'm very sorry for your loss.

Karen Hymbaugh

February 4, 2021

I will always remember that shining smile. Sending prayers and love to the family. I am so sorry for your loss and may wonderful memories of Mike help you through these difficult times.

Cathy Kleifgen

February 4, 2021

So sad to hear this news
I met Mike in a yoga class at LA fitness and later realized we both went to Scecina and his wife was
in my class. This is unbelievable he was so full of life, he will be missed! Prayers to your family!!

Ann Krug

February 4, 2021

My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are for all of his family and friends. I really enjoyed seeing him once a year (several) at Randy's race party. He lit up the atmosphere and was very funny and loving. He will be truly missed by all who knew him. My condolences to all.

Susan Torzewski Torzewski

February 4, 2021

My sincerest thoughts and prayers to the O'Connell's. I have many fond memories of time spent with your family, especially my good friends Paul and Mike. Mike was such an incredible , positive and loving individual and friend. He lived his life with appreciation, which made everyone he knew greatly appreciate him. O'C will be greatly missed and always remembered with love. May you find peace in the many loving memories that you share.

Love and God Bless!

Sue Torzewski

Anne "Shrontz" Hohenberger

February 4, 2021

OC altho I had not see you in many many years, I have never forgotten all the fun and laughs you created along the way. I met you through Karen Smith during the ole Sears and me at JCPenny days. My heartfelt sadness and sympathies for all your family, friends and gang. Rest easy friend.

Karen Smith

February 4, 2021

I met Mike “OC” and Barb when working at Sears many moons ago. We became fast friends. There were so many fun times and when I think of them I have a big smile on my face. Our lives took down different paths as I now live in Colorado. It provides some comfort knowing OC & Barb are together once again! Rest In Peace OC!

Pam Chermansky

February 4, 2021

Mike was in my yoga and silver sneakers class. He was always so friendly to everyone in the class and the gym. He really was the life of the party and will be missed. Here's to you, Mike.

Ted and Barb BRINDLE

February 3, 2021

We have only known OC for about 2 years from working out with him at LA Fitness. He was a really fun guy and we enjoyed joking around during the Senior Sneakers class. We are so sorry for your loss - he will be missed by everyone that knew him.

Micharl Polston

February 3, 2021

OC was a life long aquaintance. Unfortunately i never spent more time with Mike as life has a way of dictating your path. OC would be the first to understand. Gone too soon from us. As God had a plan for OC. I know him and Barb are back together now and will be for eternity. Man i will miss you and always remeber your infectious fantadtic personality.
Love you man.

Chad Matchett

February 3, 2021

Mike was our neighbor for seven years. He was always willing to help this first time homeowner with anything. Even though we moved away 20 years ago I always seemed to run into Mike around town or at the H.S festival. He was a truly great guy and will be missed.

David Davies

February 3, 2021

Well I am lost for words! He was an important person to me growing up in Indiana when I was a young buck...as I grew up I realized how much he was a important and influential person in our family. We have had so many good times together even though I live in Canada now...we would share Neil tunes by text messages and his infamous nickname for me swamp fox. It is hard to believe that he is gone and he will be truly missed by me and my family....I am sorry I couldnt have been their to help.
Love you OC
Swamp

Lance Langsford

February 3, 2021

I’ll miss our short conversations the few times we saw each other at LA Fitness. RIP Mike God Bless!

Ron and Jeanni Doyle

February 3, 2021

We had a lot of fun with you you, O'C. We will really miss you! At least, we''ll have your stories to keep your memory alive. There was never a dull moment with you! We love you! Until we meet again...

Ron Doyle

February 3, 2021

For well over 50 years I had the privilege to call you my close friend, I'll never forget the crazy good times we had and the sad times!I always looked forward to seeing you my brother and now I look forward to seeing you in our next life. Thanks for a great run my friend!

Bruce and Laura Cook

February 3, 2021

OC was a great coworker and friend. He had a way of making work more fun. Mike was definitely someone you could always count on. I have many great memories of our Sears days, always a lot of laughs. So hard to believe that he's gone. We were all better because we knew him. Heaven is definitely a little brighter and full of laughter. Rest well Mike, you will be missed.

Bruce and Laura Cook

Mark Stults

February 3, 2021

Ever since the day I met OC he greeted me him like we'd known each other 30 years. We will dance again someday my friend.

Dave Gordon

February 3, 2021

OC, you were one of the most amazing people I have ever met.
The original leader of the Fun Bunch.

Wherever you were, shenanigans would abound.

Rock on, young buck!

Sue Odom

February 3, 2021

Sending loving energy to you

Assad Sharifi

February 3, 2021

Although we did not know Michael personally, we have heard from Julie Davies and Angela Davies, what a wonderful, funny, caring, and kindhearted man he was. Beatrice and I offer our deepest condolences to Michael's families and friends. May he Rest in Peace and his memories live on. Amin

Bunny and Kelly Sheets

Sent Flowers

Sandy Martin

February 3, 2021

Mike, I will miss your big beautiful smile and your always-positive attitude. I'll miss seeing you at Joe's gigs, and I'll always remember you with a smile. ❤

CYNDI WARDEN

February 3, 2021

Mike was a great Friend. He left a large imprint on having a great time and always smiling. Never a dull moment when you were with Mike. I'll miss the meetings in the "Beer Garden" at Holy Cross festivals. RIP my friend.

Gregg McCollam

February 3, 2021

That smile, that heart, that personality; the largeness of OC. I will not forget. I'll be seeing you above the tree line soon Brother.

Joe Webb

February 2, 2021

OC you were a class act. I'll miss your friendship

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