David Edward O'Connor

Born on November 24, 1933, in Detroit, Michigan, David was the son of William and La Van O'Connor. He was raised in Royal Oak, Michigan and developed a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors, as well as a passion for music and enjoyed photography and charcoal sketching. He was an avid reader and almost always had a book in his hand while relaxing at home in his later years.

David was a gifted student who graduated as valedictorian of Royal Oak High School. He went on to proudly serve his country as a Private First Class in the United States Army before continuing his education at Lawrence Technological University, where he earned his degree in engineering.

David built a distinguished career as an engineer working with all of Detroit’s “Big Three” automotive manufacturers. His work reflected both his sharp intellect and dedication, and it provided him with opportunities to travel, something he deeply cherished, especially when he could share those experiences with his family.

David was a family man but also enjoyed helping his friends and neighbors with household projects. He found immense joy in music and teaching and guiding his daughters, whether helping them learn to ride a bike or snowmobile, instilling a love of the outdoors, or introducing them to the wonders of travel. David created lasting memories with his family through trips in Michigan, across the country and beyond, including summers spent in Northport in the Leelanau Peninsula and Port Austin in the thumb area, visits to Niagara Falls, Washington, D.C., Boston, Nova Scotia, Japan, and Mexico.

David married his first wife, Dolores, after meeting at Ambassador Roller Rink. They were married in 1956, and she preceded him in death in 1981. He later found companionship with longtime friend Delphine. Together, they spent many happy years in retirement in Florida, enjoying travel, cruising the Caribbean and trying their luck at the casinos. Delphine passed away in 2008.

In his later years, David returned to Michigan to be closer to his daughter. They enjoyed watching Jeopardy together, often calling out the answers, and spending time by the window watching deer and hummingbirds in the yard, as well as kayakers and paddlers on the Huron River.

He is survived by his daughter, Debra ‘Lauren’ Simon (Shawn), as well as his stepchildren; John Laskowski (Terri), David Laskowski (Sandy), Michael Laskowski (Teri) and Anita Laskowski, and multiple grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and La Van O'Connor; his first wife, Dolores O'Connor; his second wife, Delphine O'Connor; his sister, Patricia Dwyer and his daughter, Kathleen O’Connor.

He will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife Delphine at Bushnell National Cemetery in Florida.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in David’s honor to the Multiple Sclerosis Society at www.nationalmssociety.org/donate.