In loving memory of Richard "Dick" O'Connor

Obituary

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Richard (Dick) O’Connor of Marion, New York. Dick passed peacefully on July 1, 2020 at the age of 76 years old at Highland Hospital. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Dick will be remembered by his loving wife of 37 years, Carol (Meyers) O’Connor whom was at his side when he passed; children: Brian (Joanne) Howard, Carl (Alyshia) O’Connor and Debbie Bigley-O’Connor. His four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, his military brothers in arms, many friends and community members, will also remember him.

Dick was born in Geneva, New York to Elinor and Michael Joseph O’Connor. He spent over 10 years in the United States Army as an Army Ranger. Dick participated in a special operations group while he was in the Army called “Guns-a-Go-Go”. Dick served his country with honor and distinction by completing two tours in the Republic of Viet-Nam (1966-1967 and then 1970-1971). While serving overseas, Dick was awarded (amongst many other citations) a purple heart, and the Distinguished Flying Cross. Dick worked at the Marion Central School District for over 25 years and was a life-long member of the Marion Legion, VFW and Marion Minute Men Honor Guard.

One of his most vivid memories was when he was able to participate in Rochester Honor Flight Mission 60 with his son Carl in 2018, as they toured the monuments of Washington DC remembering those that paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country. He cherished the hero’s welcome he and his military brothers so deservedly received upon their return to Rochester.

Calling hours will be on Thursday July 23^rd from 4pm-6pm at the First Baptist Church of Williamson in Williamson, NY. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a small service will immediately follow. To watch the service live, please visit http://WilliamsonFBC.org. When you scroll down it shows their Facebook feed and you can watch videos there. Or participants can go to the First Baptist Church Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/williamsonfirstbaptist/

Burial with full Military Honors will take place on Friday July 24^th at Sampson Military Cemetery in Romulus, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Honor Flight Rochester (https://honorflightrochester.org/donations/) or, pass it forward by buying a veteran a meal at a local restaurant.