Vincent O'Connor

Vincent "Vinnie" Joseph O'Connor Jr, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, cousin, and friend, departed this world unexpectedly on November 22nd, 2023, at the age of 69.

Born to Vincent and Margaret O'Connor on August 31, 1954, Vinnie's journey through life was marked by passion, adventure, and an unwavering love for his family. After graduating from Don Bosco High School, he pursued his education at the University of Dayton, immersing himself in the study of criminal justice.

Just before graduation, Vinnie embarked on a thrilling adventure that led him to the vast and captivating landscapes of Alaska. In this great unknown, he embraced a variety of law enforcement roles, leaving an indelible mark on several cities and villages. It was in the heart of Alaska that he found love, marrying and building a family with four children-Shaunna, Frank, Margaret, and Loretta-alongside forging lifelong friendships.

Vinnie's true pride and joy were his children, and he spared no effort in making sacrifices to ensure they had the life he dreamed for them. His legacy lives on through each of them, as they carry forward his infectious smile, humor, love for sports (especially the Yankees, Mariners, Giants, and Seahawks), curiosity, and his exceptional ability to find joy in life's simplest pleasures.

A devoted father and grandfather, Vinnie instilled in his family a love for storytelling, fine dining, and the art of appreciating a good steak. He was a master of games that captured his love for fun and laughter, from chasing after the "claw" to climbing metaphorical mountains. His grandchildren, Laura, Willow, and Kenai, experienced firsthand the warmth and playfulness that defined Vinnie's spirit.

Known for his boundless generosity, Vinnie was always eager to ensure those around him were having a good time. His love for entertaining and laughter created enduring memories for countless friends and cousins.

In Washington State, he found a companion in his wife, Iwona, with whom he spent a joyful eleven years of love, laughter, and countless adventures. Their shared love for dance and Iwona's Polish cooking became legendary, as did Vinnie's adoption of phrases like "szefowa and spokojnie."

Vinnie also went to Poland several times with his wife Iwona. During this time he made many great friends and was loved by Iwona's family. It was actually his hope that he would retire and spend his final days there.

Vinnie will be fondly remembered by numerous friends and cousins, and his memory will live on through his wife Iwona; children, Shaunna, Frank (Ethan), Mirek, Mariusz, Margaret (Michael), and Loretta; and grandchildren Laura, Willow, and Kenai.

The family plans to honor Vinnie's vibrant and loving spirit with a celebration of life in the coming year. As we reflect on the legacy of this remarkable man, may his laughter, love, and zest for life continue to inspire and live on in the hearts of all who were touched by his warmth and kindness.