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Mark O'Connell Obituary
WESTBOROUGH - Mark F. O'Connell, of Westborough, died unexpectedly on his 62nd birthday, Saturday, February 11, 2017 snowmobiling on Lake Winnipesaukee, the lake he loved. He was the proud husband of Debra A. (Marek) O'Connell, of 38 years.
Born in Springfield, MA, he was the son of Barbara O'Connell and the late Thomas O'Connell. He was raised and educated in Enfield, CT and earned his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from AIC in Springfield.
He was a communicant of St. Luke the Evangelist Church and has been a resident of Westborough for 29 years. His whole heart belonged to his family and friends, whom he cherished. He was always taking on a new adventure and felt most alive in the outdoors; skiing, hiking and golfing. He could often be found letting the wind blow his hair while driving his Chris Craft on the lake, taking photographs of nature and family, or traveling around the world to experience new cultures and meet new people. He was always a student of life and a reliable teacher to his children and grandchildren. His love for his children and grandchildren was immeasurable.
In addition to his wife and mother, he is survived by four children, Sean M. O'Connell of Los Angeles, CA, Brendan J. O'Connell of Boston, Kara A. Bouchard and her husband, Peter, of Westborough and Shannon M. O'Connell and her husband, Thomas Magloczki, of Boston; one brother, Michael O'Connell and his wife, Christy, of South Deerfield; two sisters, Lynn Kivlen of Oreland, PA and Laurie Jackson of Leesburg, VA; his father in law, Myron Marek; two grandchildren, Connor and Benjamin Bouchard and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was the son in law of the late Rose Marek and the Uncle of the late Brien Kivlen.
His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, February 16, at 10:30 A.M. in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main St., Westborough. Burial will follow in St. Luke's Cemetery.
Calling hours at the David A. Pickering Westborough Funeral Home, 62 West Main St., Westborough, are Wednesday, February 15, from 4 to 8 P.M.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Westborough Community Land Trust.
westboroughfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mark O'Connell
Sponsored by Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home - Westborough.
Paul Bready
February 7, 2025
Mark was the best , a true gentleman! I had the pleasure of being his guest at a wonderful member guest golf tournament a couple of years ! I've got wonderful memories and a couple of stories from those times ! GREAT MAN
Tom Donahue
February 6, 2025
Debbie
Mark passed at such a young age. I will always remember him and our friendship
Guido Banning
March 28, 2017
Dear O'Connel's family, I was extremely shocked to hear the news only last week. Please do accept my deepest condolences to all of you. Truly sorry for your loss. I was part of the MatrixOne family and it was one of the best working experiences I had. I'll never forget that already the 2nd time I met Mark he remembered my complete name. Mark's been the best leader and most inspirational presenter I ever witnessed.
With deepest sympathy,
Janet Richardson
March 5, 2017
Dear Debra, I just heard that this tragic accident on Lake Winnepesaukee involved your dear husband, Mark. John Richardson told me the sad news last night at our grandson's 1st birthday party. I am so sorry for you and your children......please accept my condolences. I spend much time on this lake and totally understand Mark's love of the winter sport. Know that he is with His Heavenly father and enjoys his Eternal reward for a life well lived with you and your family. God bless you and your dad, Myron. Love, Janet Richardson
Kathleen Falanga
February 26, 2017
Dear Brendan and O'Connell family,
Our sincere condolences to you and your family for the loss of your father, Mark. May you receive comfort and peace during this very difficult time.
The Falanga Family
Jim Longbucco
February 22, 2017
RIP Mark.
Betty Slanetz
February 21, 2017
Debbie, my brother Don and I were so sorry to hear of Mark's passing. He was a great person and we are so sorry for your loss.
Rosie Brady
February 18, 2017
I had the pleasure of meeting Mark through Rob Shinno at Matrix One President Club. He was always kind and nice to everyone. My prayers and condolence to his wife Debbie, children, friends, family and coworkers.
Rob Shinno
February 18, 2017
Mark was one of the best leaders I have ever had the honor to work with. Charismatic, smart, funny and honest. He always made everyone feel special, and want to do their very best. He is greatly missed by so many that he came in contact with.
Linda and Matt Colgan
February 17, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with Debbie and all the families and friends who are having to deal with this tragedy. Mark was so special and we are blessed to have known him. The funeral service was a wonderful tribute to his memory. He will be missed by all who met him.
Mona Rao
February 17, 2017
Please accept our deepest sympathy for the loss of Mark. He was one of the most enigmatic and kind person I came across. Even as a busy CEO he would make time to get to know each and every person with interest and genuine appreciation. It has been a great privilege to know Mark and be a part of his life. I wish you strength and peace to overcome this grief.
Jerri and John Milbank
February 17, 2017
our deepest condolences to your family in the loss of mark. All your cherished memories will keep him alive in your hearts forever. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. The milbanks
Lorenzo Marangi
February 17, 2017
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family of Marc.
Mark was a true leader with a tremendous drive, dedication and results for the MatrixOne company. I will always remember my time with Mark at his President Club (Maui 2005).
Vincenzo Maione
February 17, 2017
I can say that "also" I was part of the MatrixOne family.
I mourn his death.
I was impressed by the love of life and his way of transmitting friendship, peace and joy. It was a great joy to hear him talk, never in my life I found a person of so many values.
To Mark's family please accept my condolences
Vincenzo
Marcello Ferrero
February 17, 2017
My sincere condolence to the O'Connel family.
Joining MatrixOne under Mark's leadership was a turning point in my life
and I learned from him what passion can do in our life.
He was a true leader and a very kind man.
We will all miss him.
Mary Beth (White) Clifford
February 17, 2017
Dear Debbie - I was shocked to see the news in the Manchester Union Leader this morning. I recognized the picture of Mark immediately from high school at Fermi and sadness immediately came over me. We were neighbors up in Moultonborough and did not even know it - you and your family on Captains Walk and me and my family at Jonathan's Landing. Please know that you and your family are, and will continue to be, in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that the love of God enfolds you during your journey through grief.
Maurizio Petrucciani
February 16, 2017
I was part of the MatrixOne family and it was one of best working experience I had. I remember the MatrixOne university were I had the opportunity to know Mark: I was impressed by his friendly relationship with all of us and by his capability to transmit wish to improve and be ready for a new challenge every day. Have a peaceful stay wherever you'll be.
Sincerely
Maurizio Petrucciani
Keith Nichols
February 16, 2017
To Mark's family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of Mark.
In your hours of sadness, just know that Mark touched many lives in the most positive manner, in many corners of the globe. He was respected in business and he found the time to guide others in his busy daily schedule.
I worked for Mark at MatrixOne where we produced a strong friendship as well as an exceptional working relationship. When I visited the office in Westford from the UK, Mark would invite me into his office and we would spend the lunch hour talking about strategy, opportunities and markets over a coffee. A great thinker. A great leader and a person that cared about you.
Even though we were in different parts of the world, we often exchanged emails. He was my inspiration and guidance when setting up my company a few years ago. No one else could have made such an influence on me as did Mark.
Today I share the sadness. Tomorrow I will realise the empty space he has left us all with. But forever, I know I have been privileged to be associated with a great and exceptional man, who simply cared about people.
RIP Mark.
Keith Nichols
Cambridge
UK
Mathew Anderson
February 16, 2017
So sorry for your loss Kara and family. My prayers are with you.
Matt Anderson Boston at the Bi
Toni and Joe Vitelli
February 15, 2017
Dear Debbie, My sincere condolence s go out to you and all your family. May God give you the strength to get threw this terrible time. You have shared many happy times with Mark place then close to your heart ❤ and always remember him as the man he was a giving , caring person ,with a wonderful heart.
David Ouellette
February 15, 2017
Debbie and Family,
My deepest condolence to all of you. I fondly remember both Mark and you from our days at Fermi High School. You are all in my Prayers.
Gail Gullotti
February 15, 2017
I am so sad to learn about this tragedy and my heart goes out to his family.
I worked on Mark's team when he was at DEC and he left such a good impression everywhere he went. Good boss, good man. Always a smile. Always respecting the individual.
I am sure he will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences.
Stephen & Monika Rudie
February 15, 2017
Dear Debbie and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Mark's great approach to everything inspired a huge group of people, including us. We will truly miss Mark and will remember what he meant to us forever.
Dave McLean
February 15, 2017
One of the most passionate people I have ever had the honour and priveledge of knowing, and working with. Cared for all of us - and our families. The world is a little less bright, but heaven has gained another star.
February 15, 2017
Debbie and Family,
Words cannot express the sadness we feel for you all. We hope the wonderful memories of Mark will soon ease your sorrow.
Millie and Mark Butler
John Moran
February 15, 2017
Dear Debbie and Family, Mark was the glue to keep the "O'Connell Family Gatherings" alive. The gracious hosting of annual family reunions in your Westborough and NH homes will always be treasured. RIP cousin!
Tracy McCarthy
February 15, 2017
Dear Debbie and Family,
My deepest condolences on the loss of Mark. I can only imagine how difficult this time is for you all. Mark hired me at SAVO and although we worked together for only one year, I can tell you that he was a very sincere leader who truly cared about the people who worked with him. He took time to get to know people on a personal level and often spoke about you and his kids/grandkids. He was so very proud and grateful for you all. I know how difficult it must have been for him to be so far away from you while he was working in Chicago. Mark will be missed by his colleagues at SAVO and his memory will be a kind and pleasant one. My good thoughts and prayers are with you as you heal from the tragic loss of your life partner and father.
Coen Vromans
February 15, 2017
This is heartbreaking news from the most inspiring entrepreneur I have been able to work with. Mark was a true leader with a tremendous drive, dedication and results for the MatrixOne company. I will always remember my time with Mark at his President Club. My condolences to his family in particular Debby.
Brenda and John Hayes
February 15, 2017
Dear Deb and family, we are heartbroken for you all and send you hugs and love in this sad time.
Brenda and John
Lois Christopher
February 15, 2017
Debbie: my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family after this tragic accident. I know my Steve Selko enjoyed the time he spent with Mark. May God help you to stay strong and you find peace over time remembering all the wonderful memories you and Mark shared. Love, Lois
February 15, 2017
Old memories never die. Mark hired me as the first MatrixOne employee in the Netherlands. In the winter Mark organized a global meeting in the White mountains area in New Hampshire. One evening we all went out snowmobiling which was a new experience for many of us. The following morning in spite of Mark's incredible drive to build a famous company Mark cancelled the rest of the meetings because of an upcoming blizzard. He wanted to be sure everyone would make it home safe.
Later Mark gave me the opportunity to move to Spain for MatrixOne. After learning Spanish I met my wife there. Later he congratulated us with the new additions to the family.
Gracias Mark, The Wijman-Romero family from Hilversum, The Netherlands
John Aiello
February 14, 2017
Debbie and family, I cannot begin to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. May our loving God comfort you all during this difficult time, and may you find peace in knowing that Mark is in heaven looking down on you all. We have been and will continue to pray for your family.
Paul Gilmartin
February 14, 2017
Our condolences to Debbie and the entire O'Connell family. We have many fond memories working with Mark at Digital and MatrixOne. We will miss Mark. RIP my friend.
Paul & Maria Gilmartin
February 14, 2017
I worked with Mark at SAVO. After a death in my family, he took me aside in a conference room and spent a long time talking deeply and insightfully with me. He was a kind and thoughtful man.
February 14, 2017
Rich and I remember your family fondly and we were devastated to hear about Mark's untimely passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. The Blanchettes from Buford, GA
Lorrie Hero
February 14, 2017
Our deepest sympathies to the entire O'Connell family. Our thoughts are with you.
With love, Scott and Lorrie Hero
Jean PATUREL
February 14, 2017
It was with great sadness that I learned of the brutal disappearance of Mark O'Connell
Those who met him and have worked with him portray a great manager with a real Vision, intelligent and creative, totally involved in his missions.
He had confidence in himself and confidence in the group, and the group returned it to him
Brian Blackadar
February 13, 2017
I worked for Mark at the Moultonboro home. Always enjoyed talking with him. Saw him last
as he was preparing for an on site wedding, nice family man. He will be missed. God BLess.
Jennifer McDermott
February 13, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jennifer McDermott (Quail)
February 13, 2017
Debbie,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
God Bles you and your family.
Kathy Hansen
Celeste Goff
February 13, 2017
Mark O'Connell was a great leader and personable CEO while we were employed at The SAVO Group.My prayers and sincerest condolences go out to the O'Connell Family.
Celeste R. Goff
Ali Bazzi
February 13, 2017
Debbie,
My family is extremely sad to hear of your loss. Mark was a genuine man with a kind heart. I am forever grateful for Mark's leadership, guidance, friendship and humility. Our prayers are with you as your mourn this catastrophic loss. Mark will forever live in our minds and hearts!
Ali & Zeinab Bazzi
Dick Ayres
February 13, 2017
Debbie and Brendan,
Our deepest heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
We are keeping you all in our thoughts and our prayers. God Bless.
Dick and Terrie Ayres and Family
Dan Schleifer
February 13, 2017
Debbie and Family,
I worked for Mark at SAVO and got to know him well during that time. He was a kind, caring man, and I hope you know that he touched many lives in a positive way during his career.
Sincerely,
Dan Schleifer
February 13, 2017
Debbie & Family,
Our hearts go out to all of you at this time and in the days ahead.
We loved Mark & were blessed to know him.
Bruce, Ellen, Jennifer, Ed & Michelle Crosier xoxo
Mark & Debbie - SAVO President's Club 2012
Julia Bussell
February 13, 2017
To the entire O'Connell family, you have most most sincere and heartfelt condolences. Mark came to me as CEO of my employer. Upon his departure, he was one of my most loved and cherished friends. Thank you Debbie for sharing him with us; especially me.
Joel Silva
February 13, 2017
Debbie, words cannot express the deep sorrow we are feeling at the loss of Mark. He was such a special person and touched many lives in a positive way. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Joel & Hope Silva
February 13, 2017
So sorry for your loss. I have very fond memories of Mark from MatrixOne days. Peace to you all.
-Susan (Lutz) Maxham
Dolores Sullivan Foss
February 13, 2017
Incredibly saddened to hear of Marks death. He was a wonderful man. We were all honored to have known and worked with him. My deepest sympathy to all of you.
Nigel & Joyce Jaques
February 13, 2017
Dear Debbie & Family,
How deeply sorry we are to hear the terrible news about Mark's untimely death. He lives on through the lives he touched as an incredible leader and inspiration to so many. He will be truly missed and will always be remembered.
February 13, 2017
Debbie, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Sincere and heartfelt sympathy from Alice Allen, Hazardville, CT
Paul Bready
February 13, 2017
Dear Debby and Brendan. ..my deepest condolences. ..Mark was a great gentleman and I was honored to be able to call him a friend. ..may he rest in peace. ..God bless you and your family. .
Jean Luc DOSNE
February 13, 2017
This is awful .. we are so sad.
Mark is the best Leader and Manager I never met We were so proud working for him during those Mx1 years ...
He will remain an example of attitude.
All our thoughts & strong sympathy for his family ...
Jean Luc DOSNE
Mx1 French team
Jerri and John Milbank
February 13, 2017
Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the O'Connell family. We are deeply saddened by your loss. We know what an amazing person he was in every sense of the word. May all the memories keep him alive in your hearts forever. The milbanks.
John & Betsy Richardson
February 13, 2017
We were so saddened to learn of your tragedy. Mark will be missed by many. May good memories help in these days of grief.
Leslie Rowe
February 12, 2017
Dear Debbie and Family,
My deepest condolences to you all. My heart is broken to hear this tragic news. Mark was such a wonderful man! I will never forget him coming to Mass General Hospital to sit with Steve and I during Steve's 12 hour chemotherapy infusion. He was a great support to our family during Steve's illness. He always asked about our family...such a caring man. He will be missed dearly.
With Sympathy.
Leslie(widow of Steve Rowe),Christopher, Tyler and Joshua Rowe
Tom Donahue
February 12, 2017
Debbie & Family,
Deep and sincere condolences.
I am left with great memories of Mark from our days together in Longmeadow and beyond.
He will be sadly missed...
Tom
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