Edward P. O'Connell

Edward Patrick O’Connell, age 84 of Prairie du Chien passed away Sunday, November 22, 2020 at Gundersen Health System in LaCrosse, WI. He was born January 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 9 ½ years. Edward married Barbara Jones in April of 1963 and together they raised 5 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, IL. 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 collectables. 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, WI, Vicky O’Connell (Richard Haasl), Douglas O’Connell of Eastman, WI, and Cheryl Newman of Onalaska, WI; 5 sisters; 4 brothers; 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter Candice; his grandson Sam; 4 brothers, 1 sister; and 2 son-in-laws Bob Newman and Pete Riemenapp.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, November 27, 2020 at 11:00 AM 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 AM until the time of services. 

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