PATRICK CHARLES O'CONNOR

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

PATRICK CHARLES O'CONNOR It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin and friend. On Saturday May 23, 2009, Pat O'Connor passed away suddenly at the age of 68. After suffering from multiple strokes, he had spent the last eight years battling to regain his losses. He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his devoted wife Mary-Ann, daughters, Lorraine-Marie (Jason) and Anndrea (Brad), grandchildren, Thomas, Ryland, Katelyn, and Anna, brother Frank (Ruth), numerous nieces and nephews, and caring friends, Lois Keir, Bart Magana, Paul Raymundo, Pearl Tachynski, and Marte Valersoso. Pat was predeceased by his parents, Evelyn and Charles O'Connor. Pat made his debut on December 31, 1940, a few moments ahead of his twin brother Frank. He grew up in the West End where he spent many years serving mass at St. Edward's Parish before continuing his schooling at Daniel McIntyre Collegiate. Inspired as a young man, upon graduation he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Intensive basic training, two overseas postings in Okinawa and a one year tour of duty in Vietnam instilled a strong sense of the Marine Corps code: Semper Fidelis always faithful. While in Winnipeg on leave, he met the woman with whom he would spend the next forty years. Their life together saw them criss-cross the United States, raise two daughters, and make a good life for themselves with stops in California, Maine, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. Upon retirement from the military, Pat turned down several civilian job offers to return to Winnipeg to be closer to his aging parents. This was a common theme in his life: integrity and loyalty. Throughout his life, Pat had many passions. He loved to read, and he would read anything he could get his hands on: from books, to newspapers, to encyclopedias! He was also an historian, an historian with an opinion, and was ready to debate any issue at any time. He kept in shape by lifting weights and going for long walks. He was a huge supporter of Glenlawn Collegiate athletics, and sports in general. Pat and Mary-Ann's retirement plans revolved around traveling and spending time with the grandchildren. Although the stroke prevented Pat from traveling, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. The family would like to thank all of those who contributed to enriching Pat's quality of life while at Riverview Health Centre. Thank you also to Dr. Embil, Dr. Mulhall, and Brian Scharfstein for your support over the years. We will be celebrating Pat's life on Friday, May 29 at 6:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Victory Memorial Parish, 524 Arnold Avenue. Private interment to follow. If friends and family so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Military Family Resource Centre, 102 Comet Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3J 3Y5.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 26, 2009