"Dear Sue, I am so sad to hear of ?Mr Jim?s? passing! I will always him walking Dylan around the block and how often the kids and I had wonderful conversations with him. I treasure those memories on our block. May you find peace and comfort in the days and weeks ahead, knowing we support you and care. Karen, Will and Maggie deReyna"
In loving memory of
James Martin O'Connell
March 18, 1947 - August 30, 2020
James Martin O'Connell, age 73, died on August 30, 2020 at Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit, Michigan surrounded by his loving family. James was born on March 18, 1947 in Buffalo, New York to the late Norbert O'Connell and the late Jane (nee: Corbett) O'Connell.
James was a part of the 1969 graduating class from Canisius College in Buffalo, New York where he received his bachelor's degree. After college, James selflessly served his country in the United States Air Force and reached the ranking of Staff Sergeant. Following an Honorable Discharge from service, he went on to work as a Large Case Agent for the Internal Revenue Service.
James was an avid walker and enjoyed reading historical non-fiction. He will be remembered for always being the one to complete the New York Times Crossword in pen. James and Susan loved to travel. James was "lucky enough to travel the world". He enjoyed the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and was a member of the American Legion.
Although he enjoyed many things, he absolutely loved being a father.
James was the loving husband of Susan (nee: Helmer) O'Connell. Dear father of James Michael O'Connell. Beloved brother of Jane Granville, Michael O'Connell, and the late David O'Connell.
On Monday, September 14th the family will host a 9:30 am gathering followed by a Funeral Mass at 10 am at St. Paul on the Lake Catholic Church, 157 Lake Shore Rd., Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236. Due to COVID 19, face masks will be required.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in his name to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, https://tickets.dso.org/support/donate.
Arrangements entrusted to Chas. Verheyden, Inc. Share a memory at Verheyden.org
Tributes
"Dear Sue, I am so sad to hear of ?Mr Jim?s? passing! I will always him walking Dylan around the block and how often the kids and I had wonderful conversations with him. I treasure those memories on our block. May you find peace and comfort in the days and weeks ahead, knowing we support you and care. Karen, Will and Maggie deReyna"
"Dear Sue, I am so sad to hear of ?Mr Jim?s? passing! I will always him walking Dylan around the block and how often the kids and I had wonderful conversations with him. I treasure those memories on our block. May you find peace and comfort in the days and weeks ahead, knowing we support you and care. Karen, Will and Maggie deReyna"
"Jim had the best smile and an infectious laugh. He was the only person our dog Winston would face the shock ifrunning through the Invisible Fence to get to. Winston had very good taste in people. Jim will be missed greatly. Lois Manardo "