Laurie Anne O'Connell
September 5th, 1957 - June 20th, 2024
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Laurie's Obituary
Laurie O’Connell, a beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 20th, 2024 at the age of 66.
A memorial celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, July 3 at 11 AM at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Caring Circle Hospice or Berrien County Cancer Services. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Laurie was born on September 5, 1957, in Benton Harbor. She was raised by George & Janet (Schuler) Schack. In 1976, she graduated from South Haven High School, and she continued her education at Western Michigan University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in finance. On October 9, 1980, Laurie married the love of her life, Steve O’Connell, in South Haven. Laurie began her working career at Cook Nuclear Plant, but she would later relocate to work with Steve at Industrial Pattern. She would be an Accountant there for 25 years before retiring in 2014. When she wasn’t working, Laurie embraced her inner Sun Goddess as she laid out by her pool, spent time at the beach or enjoyed vacations with family and friends to Florida.
Laurie was known for her quiet, calming spirit, her exuberant laugh and her all-encompassing hugs. She faced challenges with an unshakable faith and had confidence that everything happened for a reason. Her comforting presence made everyone feel like they were home. Laurie’s magnetism drew people in and made them feel warm and at ease. Her ability to connect with others was a testament to her love and compassion. She was truly everyone’s mother. To know her was to know the embodiment of a mom.
Laurie’s legacy is one of love, strength, and enduring belief in the goodness of life. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of family and friends. She is survived by her devoted husband of 43 years, Steve of St. Joseph; sons, Ryan (Heidi) O’Connell of Phoenix, AZ, Sean (Cait) O’Connell of Tinley Park, IL, and Kevin (Megan) O’Connell of Stevensville; grandchildren, Amilya, Rory, & Remi; and twin sister, Lynne (Eli) Sanchez.
A memorial celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, July 3 at 11 AM at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Caring Circle Hospice or Berrien County Cancer Services. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Laurie was born on September 5, 1957, in Benton Harbor. She was raised by George & Janet (Schuler) Schack. In 1976, she graduated from South Haven High School, and she continued her education at Western Michigan University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in finance. On October 9, 1980, Laurie married the love of her life, Steve O’Connell, in South Haven. Laurie began her working career at Cook Nuclear Plant, but she would later relocate to work with Steve at Industrial Pattern. She would be an Accountant there for 25 years before retiring in 2014. When she wasn’t working, Laurie embraced her inner Sun Goddess as she laid out by her pool, spent time at the beach or enjoyed vacations with family and friends to Florida.
Laurie was known for her quiet, calming spirit, her exuberant laugh and her all-encompassing hugs. She faced challenges with an unshakable faith and had confidence that everything happened for a reason. Her comforting presence made everyone feel like they were home. Laurie’s magnetism drew people in and made them feel warm and at ease. Her ability to connect with others was a testament to her love and compassion. She was truly everyone’s mother. To know her was to know the embodiment of a mom.
Laurie’s legacy is one of love, strength, and enduring belief in the goodness of life. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of family and friends. She is survived by her devoted husband of 43 years, Steve of St. Joseph; sons, Ryan (Heidi) O’Connell of Phoenix, AZ, Sean (Cait) O’Connell of Tinley Park, IL, and Kevin (Megan) O’Connell of Stevensville; grandchildren, Amilya, Rory, & Remi; and twin sister, Lynne (Eli) Sanchez.
Memorial Contributions
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