Denis F. O'Connor

Denis F. O’Connor, a longtime resident of Riverside, CT passed away on Sunday, February 21, 2021 after a long battle with diabetes and complications from numerous strokes. He was born in the Bronx, NY on June 13, 1946, to the late Patricia and Dennis O’Connor.

After graduating from Salesian High School in New Rochelle, NY, he proudly served in the United States Navy as a gunners mate. Following his Honorable Discharge in 1968, Denis transitioned to a telecommunications career at New York Telephone Company. He began as a switchman and was later promoted to management, where he worked until his retirement.

As an avid scuba diver, fisherman, and sailor he truly enjoyed many days on Long Island Sound and Narragansett Bay in RI. His interests and hobbies included building a television from scratch, photography, reading and running in the New York City Marathon.

He is survived by his loving wife, Chris, of 47 years, his children, Kathryn Kelley (Mike) of WA and Denis O’Connor of Avon, CT, a granddaughter, Harper O’Connor, his sisters, Eileen Sonnick (John) of Milton, VT and Kathleen Reilly (Warren) of New Rochelle, NY and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and brother, Brendan O’Connor.

The family would like to recognize and thank Clifford Clarke for his many years as a devoted and incredible caregiver for Denis. They had a loving bond between them which was very special.

Friends and family are invited to his funeral Mass on Friday, March 5, 2021 at 11 AM at St. Catherine of Sienna Church, Riverside, CT. If you plan to attend the Mass, please arrive by 10:30 to sign in and to be seated in the church. The Mass will also be live streamed at

https://events.locallive.tv/events/47161

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the SPCA of Westchester, Briarcliff Manor, NY, The Stamford Animal Control & Care Center Shelter, or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.