David Patrick O'Connor

David Patrick O'Connor Jr., age 84, of Port Huron, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025 following several years of living with Alzheimer's disease. A proud U.S. Marine, loyal husband, loving father and grandfather, caring stepfather, cherished uncle, and respected member of the Port Huron community, he lived a happy and full life that was defined by family, hard work, honesty, and service.
Born to David and Mary O'Connor on March 26, 1941, David grew up in a large, loving family and was preceded in death by all six of his siblings. A natural leader and athlete, he excelled in both football and basketball at St. Steven's High School and continued his athletic career at St. Joseph's College. After college, David proudly served as a U.S. Marine, including active duty in Vietnam, where he developed a deep commitment to duty, honor, and country.
Following his service, David worked in various jobs across the country before settling back in Port Huron, where he worked as a banker for over 30 years. Known for his exemplary work ethic, he earned respect as a professional of integrity and reliability. Beyond his career, David was deeply devoted to his community, serving on numerous local boards and volunteering his time to civic and charitable organizations. A lifelong Catholic, he was committed to his faith and to giving back to those around him.
David was a dedicated and engaged father. Regardless of his work schedule, he made it a priority to attend every game, play, and performance when his children were young, and he also coached AYSO soccer. A passionate golfer, David always encouraged his children to share in his love for the sport. He often tempted them to the course with the promise of letting them drive the golf cart. Unfortunately, none of them followed in his footsteps when it came to a love of golf.
David was known for his joyful demeanor and playful sense of humor. He had a natural ability to make people laugh and never missed an opportunity to bring a smile to someone's face. From the time he was a young uncle, he used his jokes and lightheartedness to entertain the children around him. In fact, his sister Mae's children affectionately dubbed him "Favorite Dave" when he was still a teenager. That same silliness and warmth carried through to his role as a father and grandfather, continuing to delight the children who were lucky enough to love him.
He is survived by his wife, Betty O'Connor of Port Huron; his children, Maureen (Jim) Antal of Canton, Carrie (John) Helmholdt of Grand Rapids, David O'Connor (Cara Ianni) of Seattle, Washington, and Christine O'Connor (John Zeichman) of Ann Arbor. He was a proud grandfather to Olivia, Avery, and Calli Antal; Jack Helmholdt; and Junie and Finn Zeichman. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Jeff (Michelle) Howard of Land O' Lakes, Florida, Tim (Kathy) Howard of Port Huron, and Anne (Scott) Rogers of Ann Arbor, as well as six step-grandchildren, Erik, Brett, Keaton, and Austin Howard, Hallie Roltgen and Lindsie Rogers. He leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews and a large extended family that includes numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.
Though his siblings preceded him in death, their bond and memory remained a central part of his life.
David will be remembered as a truly good man - a gentleman, humble, strong, generous, and kind. He was respected by all who knew him and deeply loved by his family, friends, and community.
Visitation will be held on June 6 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Grace Memorial, located at 4521 Ravenswood Rd., Kimball Township, MI 48074. Military honors and The Rosary will begin at 7:00 p.m. A funeral mass will take place on June 7 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity St. Stephen Catholic Church, 325 32nd St., Port Huron, MI 48060, with a brief visitation beforehand at 10:30 a.m.
To livestream Military Honors and The Rosary on June 6, 2025 at 7:00 p.m., please click the following link: https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/david-patrick-oconnor-jr-rosary-and-military-rites
To livestream the funeral mass on June 7, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., please click the following link: https://www.youtube.com/live/Ly5nNtc0WQY
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Dementia & Alzheimer's Association of St Clair County. He will be dearly missed and loved forever. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David, please visit our floral store.