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BORN
1931
DIED
2014
Robert O'Connell Obituary
He had Parkinson's disease the last 23 years and lived at home in western Lucas County until three years ago, his son, Kevin, said.
Mr. O'Connell retired in 1988. He was inducted into the Ohio Tennis Coaches' Association Hall of Fame in 1991. The Ottawa Hills High tennis courts were named in his honor in 2006. As Ottawa Hills tennis coach, he amassed a 459-159 record. He told The Blade in 2008 that his greatest pleasure was to put together compatible doubles teams.
"It's tough to get two high school boys and girls to play together," Mr. O'Connell told The Blade.
He coached two state championship doubles teams, in 1969 and back to back in 1974-1975.
"He was a teacher of the game," said John Buckey, who with Craig Burkhart made up that 1969 championship team. "His love of the game was infectious. He was an icon of local tennis and became a fixture at the high school state tournament.
"He was demanding, and he expected a lot from you," said Mr. Buckey, who counted Mr. O'Connell as a friend. "But he was very fair and would go out of his way to help you both on and off the court. He was a special person, and I really enjoyed playing for him, and I enjoyed the times I got to see him later too."
Mr. O'Connell also coached the high school varsity girls basketball team at Ottawa Hills. He started his career as a history teacher and coach at Rogers High School.
His son was a tennis star at St. Francis de Sales High School and played at Kent State University, and several grandchildren had outstanding high school and collegiate athletic careers.
"He took great pride in their tennis and in all their sports," his son said.
In the classroom, Mr. O'Connell's specialty was American history, particularly the influence of the French in the Revolutionary War.
He also was a tennis pro at Sylvania Country Club and at Carranor Hunt & Polo Club in Perrysburg.
He visited Ireland often, and in retirement he and his wife started All Ireland Graphics. They designed T-shirts and sweatshirts on Irish themes, which they sold at Irish festivals across the country and by mail order.
He was born Feb. 11, 1931, to Mabel and John O'Connell and grew up in West Toledo. He was a 1949 graduate of Central Catholic High School. He sailed aboard the USS Missouri while in the Navy. He attended John Carroll University. He received a bachelor of business degree and a master of education degree from the University of Toledo.
Surviving are his wife, Jean O'Connell, whom he married July 28, 1951; son, Kevin; daughter, Anne Gullia; six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. Friday in the Walker Funeral Home, Sylvania Township, with a Scripture service at 7:30 p.m. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday in Immaculate Conception Church, Marygrove, 1748 Raab Rd.
The family suggests tributes to Hospice of Northwest Ohio or the UT Foundation's Parkinson's fund.
Contact Blade Staff Writer Mark Zaborney at: [email protected] or 419-724-6182.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert O'Connell
31 Entries
February 12, 2015
As I have read all the previous entries, I realized that Mr. O'Connell made each of us feel special to him. I actually felt a little "jealous" after reading the comments, because , of course, I thought "I" was his special student. How fortunate I was to have him as a teacher at the time I did at RHS. He made me feel like he truly cared about me as a person. I will never forget, and still have the letter he wrote to me when I went off to college. He boosted my esteem, made me feel like I could achieve whatever.
I, like many others who have written, remember him as their "FAVORITE TEACHER". I tried to model him when I did start teaching, but no one can be
"Mr. O.Connell"
I know God has blessed the place he deserved in heaven, and to you his family, he will be there for you, as always.
How lucky I was! Thanks, Mr. O'Connell!
Joyce Bak (RHS 1965)
sharon falkenberg/ Himebaugh
December 10, 2014
Always remember Mr. O'Connell. He was one great teacher. Teachers like him are not around anymore!
November 10, 2014
My favorite teacher without a doubt. Rest in peace Bob O'Connell. Rogers H.S "66"
Gerry Dorr, Waterville,Ohio
November 9, 2014
One of my favorite teachers. I will always remember his history class fondly. My thoughts are with his family.
He will be missed.
Martha (Szor) Kreutzer, OHHS '81
Sonja " sunny" Frederic
November 8, 2014
May there be peace for the family and I'd like to acknowledge the dedication and sacrifice the wife ( and children as well) provided. She was always by his side. You and your family displayed such a generous spirit. May you have peace
Bobbie Dankoski
November 7, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. Mr
O'Connell was one of my favorite teachers even though I was not one of his best students. My grades were not bad but he knew I was not doing my best. He wrote in my yearbook "I hope that someday your studies are as important as your social life. " Our class of 1962 was very honored that he was able to come to our 45th class reunion. Unfortunately I won't be able to attend services because we are babysitting grandchildren in Vermont.
Greg & Ellen Kisov
November 7, 2014
Mr O'Connell was an inspiration to so many people including me. He will be truly missed. So sorry for your loss, O'Connell family.
Daniel Powell
November 7, 2014
I am Pastor Daniel M. Powell, an 1971 OHHS graduate and 'disciple' of Mr. O'Connell for three years. My doubles partner, Craig Shopneck, and I qualified for State our Senior year. Mr. O'Connell [to this afternoon, I cannot call him Bob] will always occupy a special place in my memory. His patient coaching enabled me to play 4 years of varsity tennis at Wittenberg University and coach 7 years at the high school level. He taught me much, about life and tennis. May God bless you with comfort and courage.
Daniel M. Powell
Sean O'Neill
November 7, 2014
Dear Aunt Jean,
Elizabeth and I are so sorry that Uncle Bob has passed, but our memories of him will always be in our hearts. I always looked forward to comparing tactics in table tennis and tennis with him and sharing my tournament experiences knowing he might pass them on to his players. Elizabeth loved being quizzed on American history from Bob and always looked forward to the visits. We have all the wonderful Irish gifts (crosses, blessings, O'Neill Family History, and sweaters) you have given us proudly displayed to this day.
It comes as no surprise reading the other condolences what a great impact Bob had on so many students and athletes. It is true honor to have him as my uncle.
November 7, 2014
An outstanding teacher and wonderful person, although a bit scary to me as his student. Condolences to his family. Know that he will be fondly remembered by many.
Kay Munson - Rogers '66
Sue McKisson-Savoie
November 7, 2014
Just looking at his picture after all these years brings a smile to my face. Mr. O'Connell was a great teacher and made history palatable to many of us. I thank him for the good memories of high school and send my condolences to the family - and hugs to Anne
Up The Irish!
Michael Maxson
November 7, 2014
Please accept my condolences:
Mr. O'Connell was a great teacher, a great man, and a great lover of all things Irish.
I can still remember running into Mr. O'Connell at a St Patrick's Day Party at The Toledo Club in about 1978. I was with my family, and I was only 16 and was not yet of age to have a pint of Guinness...however I did manage to sneak one, but was caught by Mr. O'Connell. He just gave me a nudge and a wink, and told me to go easy. LOL Those were the days. I also had to face him the next morning in history class. :0
As a previous member of the Toledo AOH (Ancient Order of Hibernians) I also have fond memories of running into Mr. O'Connell at the Irish Fetes and Festivals...I still have several T-shirts that I purchased from him.
I am truly grateful for the knowledge, wisdom, time, and memories that Mr. O'Connell so graciously gave to me.
My condolences to all the family, but especially Anne, my class mate. He will be sorely missed.
An Old Irish Blessing:
May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face and rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Michael Maxson (OHHS Class of 1980)
Kathy Smith
November 7, 2014
Bob was so instrumental in the woman I came to be. His guidance and wisdom continue to lead me. His eternal reward is greatly deserved. He and his brother Jack will be two people I will always love.
Scott Peeler
November 7, 2014
Mr. O'Connell was a truly amazing teacher...I recall so much about his classes and life lessons...I feel lucky to have been one of his students. My deepest condolences to his family and please know how special he was to so many.
Jane Ockuly
November 6, 2014
Dear Jean, Kevin & Anne,
We are so very sorry to learn of Bob's passing. Many fond memories of times spent on the SCC tennis courts, where he taught my children the game and we all enjoyed playing. Bob was a true gentleman and it was a pleasure to know him & a privilege to be coached by him.
Fondly,
Jane Ockuly, Sharon, Jim & Joni
November 6, 2014
To all of you, my sincerest sympathies and condolences. Mr. O'Connell (as I knew him) was my favorite teacher. At OHHS, and beyond, a great and positive influence in my life. A wonderful and wise person whom I will always fondly remember and appreciate.
John Bergener
November 6, 2014
Quite simply the best teacher I ever had on any level. You not only learned American history, you lived it.
Dave Cousino
November 6, 2014
Kevin so sorry to hear about your Dad he was a great guy. My condolences to the whole O'Connell family.
Ann Northrup/ Lachey
November 6, 2014
Thinking of you all. I have wonderful memories of playing basketball for coach. He was a great teacher on the court and in the class room. I will never forget when I took my daughter to visit Jean and him at their house. He told me to grab a basketball bring it into the family room and then he continued to show my daughter several basketball moves. He will be missed.
November 6, 2014
Dear Jean, Kevin & Anne -
What a wonderful man, great teacher, wonderful coach. Years ago, Bob gave me a Gaelic Irish blessing. I had it framed and has always been in our Dining room for the blessing. A wonderful guy, may he rest in peace.
Nan Reno - Sebring Fl.
Sue (Hollopeter) Erdmann
November 6, 2014
I would like to extend my condolences to the entire O'Connell family. Mr. O'Connell was a mentor to me, both in summer tennis lessons and at Rogers H.S. He was a wonderful, caring man who had a great influence on my life.
Sister Ann McManus
November 6, 2014
Dear O,Connell Family,
Iwas sadden to heard about Bob,death.
Iremember the first Irish Festival. He wrote of how he wanted the festival on
a napkin. He was a good man kind and love being Irish. I love working with him .I thank God for his friendship.
You all are in my prayers and support. I may come to the funeral or funeral Mass. I am not walking to god lately.
God bless you always.
Sister Ann Marie McManus
Roger Johnston
November 6, 2014
Mr. O'Connell left a lasting impression on me as a teacher of American History at Rogers High School, to this day American History still turns on the light bulb in my head because of his excellent classroom presentations, he was the best! Condolences to his family.
Dedicated November 11, 2006
Maury Collins
November 6, 2014
My sympathy Jean. Bob was such a wonderful man. I sent out the notice on the Hibernian prayer page. There would not have been a Hibernian St. Patrick's Day Festival without Bob. He started it all. I also sent out an article from the January 2007 Hibernian newsletter about the Bob O'Connell Tennis Courts in Ottawa Hills. Prayers and good wishes to you and your family.
November 6, 2014
Jean, Kevin,Anne and family. We extend our sympathy to you.I have fond memories of tennis matches with Bob years ago.You are in our thoughts and prayers. Chuck and Sharon Dendinger, Ft. Myers, Fl.
Kathleen Kress
November 6, 2014
To the O'Connell Family, Jean, Kevin, Anne and all the grandchildren and great-grandchildren, our sincere sympathy. Bob was a wonderful, kind, and generous person. May he rest in eternal peace.
John Recknagel
November 6, 2014
To Jean and family my condolences to you all on the passing of Bob. He was a great guy and I remember him from my days at Rogers High School. But more so meeting up with him and Jean again at the various Irish festivals that they attended later on.
May he rest in peace.
Marla Treichel-Janna
November 6, 2014
Mr. O'Connell taught me American History at Rogers High School many years ago. He was the best - absolutely the best. I'm still a history buff because of him. He used to say "close your eyes and picture this" and then describe what a scene in the past would have been like, bringing it alive for us. My husband (we actually met in Mr. O'Connell's class) and I send our deepest sympathy to his family.
Tom Schoen
November 6, 2014
Mr. O'Connell--the man, teacher and player--was a mentor and inspiration to me. He also sharpened my appreciation of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, and jazz in general. I am deeply grateful.
Dr. Lydia Schafer
November 6, 2014
Mr O'Connell remains embedded in my memory as one of the best teachers I ever had. His history and life lessons still ring true and I was blessed to have learned from him.....
Dave Binkley
November 6, 2014
To Kevin and the O"Connell family; so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you at this time.
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