JAMES MATTHEW O'CONNELL

O'CONNELL

JAMES MATTHEW, after a long and valiant struggle with Alzheimer's, our beloved husband, father, and friend succumbed on September 11, 2012. He was born on August 14, 1937 in Philadelphia to Louise and Thomas O'Connell and was nurtured by his grandparents, immigrants from Germany. He often spoke of his childhood growing up in an Italian community. The "neighborhood" included the Irish boy being raised by a single mother. He lovingly remembered the meatballs given to him in the many kitchens of the "neighborhood."
His wife, Cindy, sons, Casey and Drew, and daughter-in-law, Danielle, were precious to him. He relished the successes of his sons and wife and encouraged them to take challenges. A dog lover, a sportsman, an avid Eagles fan, Jim lived life to the fullest.
Jim played a role in a very exciting time for telecommuni-cation. He was involved in the first cutover of analog data to fiber optics. Jim began his 42 year career as a switchman with Bell of PA and ended his career as an officer of Verizon. He was loyal to his teams and inspirational to many in the company. He was a passionate leader who truly loved his work. He used his wit and sense of humor as he strove to make the company the best it could be. During his struggle with Alzheimer's he never completely lost his ability to use his humor to cajole and make others comfortable. Jim retired from the phone company, Verizon, after 42 years of service.
He proudly served a stint in New Zealand with Telecom NZ and enjoyed the challenge of growing that company and the challenge of working in a different culture. He embraced the Kiwis and they in turn admired Jim and his leadership style.
Celebration of life service at Tohono Chul Park, Wilson Room, Sunday, September 16, 2012 at 2:30 P.M. Memorial service in Philadelphia to be announced. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association (alz.org) or charity of your choice.