Joseph Paul O'Connor, 93, passed away peacefully at 10:32 p.m. on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at La Bella of Alton.
Born on March 10, 1931, in Springfield, IL, to Albert and Christina (Keefner) O'Connor, Joseph lived a life rich in service and love. He married his beloved wife, Sarah Havenar, on May 5, 1962, in Springfield, IL.
Joseph attended Feitchen High School. He drove a dump truck for his father's coal business before joining the Marines, where he proudly served during the Korean War. After his service, he worked as an engineer for Ma Bell (Illinois Bell Telephone Company), where he first met Sarah.
A man of deep faith, Joe was an active member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church for 56 years. He enjoyed coaching Khoury league baseball and was passionate about fishing.
Joseph is survived by his wife, Sarah; their four daughters and a son: Nancy (Scott) Skrivan of St. Charles, MO; Tony O'Connor of St. Louis, MO; Paula O'Connor of Godfrey, IL; Maria (Chris) Milford of Godfrey, IL; and Susan (James) Kasten of Godfrey, IL. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren: Scott (Katie) Skrivan, Sarah (Brendan) Loughman, Patrick Skrivan (Zac Anderson), Hannah Jones, Sam Jones, Gracie Milford, Hazel Kasten, and Vivian Kasten, along with a great-grandson on the way. He is also survived by his brother Fred O'Connor and many cherished family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents and several siblings: Albert (Buss) O'Connor, Russell (Pat) O'Connor, Florence Mullen, Clara Pavoltic, Thomas O'Connor, Theresa Klune, and Helen Clarke. His first born, David Paul, also proceeded him in death.
Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Elias, Kallal, and Schaaf in Godfrey, IL.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Godfrey, IL, followed by burial at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Godfrey, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Operation Smile: https://www.operationsmile.org.
Online condolences and the guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
