Paul O'Connor

Paul Stephen O’Connor, also known as Papa, Dad, Brother, Uncle Paul, Oakie, Tyrone, and in one or two cases Paulie, passed away on August 13, 2024, after a well-lived life filled with love and laughter shared with family and friends. Born in Brooklyn, NY, on New Year’s Day, 1948, Paul was the youngest of the nine children of Gerald and Mary A. (Kenney) O’Connor. Paul grew up playing on the streets of Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn, surrounded by a large Irish-Catholic family and a larger group of lifelong neighborhood friends. Prospect Park, Farrell’s Bar, Holy Name Parish, and 267 Windsor Place are the places that shaped Paul into the loving man and loyal friend he would become.

In 1966, Paul graduated from Manhattan’s Chelsea Vocational High School, specializing in carpentry and cabinet making. While in high school, he was recognized for his mastery of wood craftsmanship, which became a lifelong passion. In January 1967, Paul shipped off to Great Lakes, IL, for U.S. Navy boot camp. During his four years in the Navy, Paul achieved the rank of ADJ3 and was stationed on the USS Independence, where he toured the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Paul was very proud of his service as he became an active American Legion and VFW member.

In January 1973, Paul went on a blind date with a friend’s redheaded cousin, Martha Robichaud, whom he married ten months later. Paul and Martha went on to have two children, Peter and Erin. They moved from Brooklyn, NY, to Winchendon, MA, where Paul was an active member of the community and dedicated himself to various roles including membership in American Legion Post 193, Boy Scout Master for Troop 35, Winchendon Little League President and Coach, Clark Memorial Swim Team parent volunteer, and all-around handyman for anyone in need.

Paul began his career with the U.S. Post Office while living in Brooklyn and transferred to the Fitchburg Post Office in 1978, remaining until his retirement in 2003. Paul credited the hills of Fitchburg for keeping him active and fit. He was a honored life member of the National Association of Letter Carriers and would always insist that you tip your cap to each mail carrier you came across.

In 2003, Paul and Martha “retired” to North Port, FL, where he worked for several years for the North Port Parks and Recreation Department. Paul fully retired in 2018 to spend more time with “his Martha” as she battled through the effects of Alzheimer’s. After Martha passed away in 2021, he moved to Pennsylvania to be closer to his grandchildren, Colby, Ellie, and Jade. He was a proud grandfather and cheered each of them from the sideline of whatever sporting event, school band concert, or dance recital he could attend.

Paul’s legacy will be that he gave unconditionally and whole-heartedly. He was the eternal optimist and loved caring for his family and friends. Paul’s story is one of dedication, love, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. He is survived by his two children Peter (Jillian) and Erin (Marcie), three grandchildren Colby, Ellie, and Jade. Paul also leaves behind three brothers, John, Michael, and Brian, as well as many nieces, nephews, friends, and a pal. He will be deeply missed, but the seeds he planted in the hearts of those who knew him will continue to grow and flourish for generations to come. Fantastic.

A service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, October 4, 2024 at the Massachusetts Veterans Cemetery in Winchendon, MA. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately after the service. In remembrance of Paul’s life and love, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Alzheimer’s Association.