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John S. O'Connell, Jr.
John S. O'Connell, Jr.
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John O'Connell, Jr. Obituary
Born in Arlington, Virginia, August 1st, 1966, and raised in Rochester, New York, John was the oldest of four siblings. He grew up surrounded by a close-knit, loving family. He is survived by his wife, Dawn, and sons, Seamus, Liam, and Aidan. He is also survived by his parents, Audrey O'Connell and John O'Connell, Sr., siblings, Christine O'Connell (Clay), Loreen O'Connell (Jim), and Keith O'Connell (Sarah).
John and Dawn, high school sweethearts, were married for 31 years, and together, they raised three fearless, energetic, and adventurous sons. John was a devoted father who loved nothing more than standing as a proud audience and frequent participant to anything that made his boys happy. His role as a father was, by far, his most rewarding triumph, and he firmly believed that his children were his greatest accomplishment.
John graduated from McQuaid Jesuit High School. While studying at the Rochester Institute of Technology, John also served as a Marine Reserve. He graduated with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Packaging Science and worked for thirty four years in the packaging industry. Throughout his career, John undertook roles with increasing scope. Traveling through Europe, Asia, and Latin America, he forged valuable relationships with his immeasurable leadership skills, and his strengths were evident in his ability to problem-solve and build a team mentality.
In addition to work, John was a gifted athlete. On a hockey rink or the soccer pitch, John was a force to be reckoned with. In all aspects of his life, his bold personality allowed him to live three times the life of most as he pushed all boundaries to the edge, never steering away from risks. As Dawn will attest, John consistently raised the fun-o-meter, and his zest for life set the bar for everyone around him.
He was an incredibly loved man who will be greatly missed-leaving a lasting imprint on his wife and children, as well as anyone who knew him.
A celebration of John's life will be held on Saturday, November 19th, 2022, from 11am to 2pm, at Independence Grove Forest Preserve, Audubon Hall, 16400 Buckley Road, Libertyville, IL 60048.
A memorial fund is being established for his three boys.
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Vernell L Crawford
November 21, 2022
In Loving memory of a wonderful person. May the love of family and friends carry you through this time of sorry. John will be missed.
The Kelley's (Michael, Susie, Katie, Thomas, Teddy)
November 18, 2022
We extend condolences to Dawn, Seamus, Liam, Aidan, John's parents and extended family. We were neighbors on Sunnyside & Prairie Ave in Libertyville. John was a proud dad, loving husband, amazing athlete, and lived life to the fullest. We were shocked to learn of his passing. May God comfort the family. Sincerely, the Kelley's
Mike Garcia
November 17, 2022
My condolences to the family. I worked with John many years ago at Motorola. He was one of a kind.
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Gregory Beylerian
November 17, 2022
In all my years living on this beautiful swirling ball I never met anyone like John. Some of the most exciting memories and adventures that showed me how life could be lived were because of John. He lives in my heart always with his great smile, infectious laugh and unbridled spirit for an illuminated life.
Reggie Harrison
November 17, 2022
I met John while working at SGS, he and I worked on a package redesign project for a major retailer. John was amazing with his knowledge and presentation skills. He hit a home run with the client and grand slam with me. He taught me alot, shared personal stories of his adventures and always asked me how I was. He was super funny and made me laugh, I will miss our conversations and his insight. Rest in peace John!
Mike Dentes
November 16, 2022
My ice hockey sticks are out on the front porch in memory of John.
He got me started in recreational hockey at RIT.
Will continue to remember him every time I hit the ice.
We think of him every time we dig into a properly or improperly packaged takeout pizza.
Wilfredo Gonzales
November 15, 2022
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Bill & Kathie
November 15, 2022
We knew John as a youngster in Henrietta, NY. He grew up in a very loving family and through his life gave them plus us, many memories that will live in all our hearts forever. May God´s Angels walk with him through the Gates of Heaven as he will be welcomed by those who went before him. May he rest in peace in the arms of God forever. Bill & Kathie
Jackie Kirby
November 14, 2022
I worked with John at Mororola and he was always so positive, kind, inspiring, and made me smile. Everyone who knew him loved him. My prayers go out to his wife, sons, parents friends and family. I´m so sorry for your loss.
Elizabeth Altman
November 14, 2022
I remember John well from Motorola days. Sending sincere condolences to his family.
Candida (Motsay) Welker
November 14, 2022
My heart goes out to the family.
I´m so saddened by this loss, John was a wonderful person inside and out. My deepest sympathies.
Matt Tooley
November 14, 2022
So sorry, Dawn. Much love to your whole family.
John and Peggy Wheelen
November 14, 2022
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Trudy Draper
November 14, 2022
Rest in peace John. You were a great neighbor, always full of good vibes. I will miss you.
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