Edward Patrick O'Connell
Edward Patrick O’Connell, 84, of Prairie du Chien, passed away Sunday, Nov. 22, 2020, at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse.
He was born Jan. 3, 1936, in Prairie du Chien, the son of Donald and Irene (Reed) O’Connell. He spent his whole life in the Eastman area. He served in the United States National Guard for nine and a half years. Edward married Barbara Jones in April of 1963 and together they raised five children. Over the years, he worked for other farmers, worked at the Deck in Prairie du Chien, Zabel Equipment in Eastman, and General Motors in Rockford, Ill. He also had his own farms. He was a member of the Eastman Fire Department for 39 years and was also a member of the Eagle’s Club. He liked playing pool and cards and being with his grandchildren. He loved dealing antiques, coins, and collectibles. Even more, he loved socializing with everyone. In the end, he talked about the great life growing up, being with all his family.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Barbara; his children, Tracy (Tim) Walz of Glen Haven, Vicky O’Connell (Richard Haasl) and Douglas O’Connell of Eastman, and Cheryl Newman of Onalaska; five sisters; four brothers; 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Candice; his grandson, Sam; four brothers; one sister; and two sons-in-law, Bob Newman and Pete Riemenapp.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, Nov. 27, at 11 a.m. at St. John’s Church of the Holy Family Parish, with burial in the Calvary Cemetery, both in Prairie du Chien, Msgr. Charles Stoetzel officiating. Friends may call at the church on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services. The Garrity Funeral Home, of Prairie du Chien, is assisting the family.
