J. Michael O'Connell

1935 - 2023

Saratoga Springs - A truly amazing Saratogian, Former Mayor J. Michael O'Connell passed away peacefully early Saturday February 25th, at The Home of the Good Shepherd Memory Care Residence. He was 87. He had been under their care for Dementia/Alzheimer's since late 2018.Born December 23rd, 1935, at Saratoga Hospital, Saratoga Springs NY, he was the son of Maurice 'Mose' O'Connell and Agnes (Sullivan) O'Connell. He was the older brother of one sister, Maureen (O'Connell) Godlewski and was known to many as Mike, J. Mike, or simply 'Mayor'.J. Mike is predeceased by his greatest love Elizabeth 'Betty' O'Connell (Kuenzel). They celebrated 60 amazing years together until her death in December 2018. In addition to his wife, J. Mike is predeceased by his parents, and his youngest son and favorite golf partner Robert Charles O'Connell.Survivors include his younger sister Maureen (O'Connell) Godlewski, two loving sons; Dr. J. Michael O'Connell, Jr. (Dr. Fred Rocco) and Maurice D. O'Connell (Liz O'Connell), daughter-in-law MaryEllen (Harper) O'Connell, his grandchildren: Christopher Harper O'Connell, Elliott Giosuè O'Connell, and Charlotte Kuenzel O'Connell; nieces, nephews, several cousins and so many amazing friends and classmates.Relatives and friends may call from 4 to 7pm Thursday (March 2nd, 2023) at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am Friday (March 3rd, 2023) in the historic Church of St. Peter, 241 Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Burial will follow in St. Peter's Cemetery, West Ave.Mayor J. Michael O'Connell will be remembered for being a loving husband, incredible father, beloved grandfather, and a proud Saratogian.Memorial donations may be made in his name to the Community Hospice of Saratoga 179 Lawrence St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 and the Alzheimer's Association Northeastern New York Chapter.The family would like to additionally thank all the caregivers and staff at the Home of the Good Shepherd Memory Care Residence for all their love and support.Online remembrances and a more detailed obituary may be viewed at www.burkefuneralhome.com. https://www.lastingmemories.com/john-michael-oconnell