Lt. Colonel Dennis William O'Connell

Born on December 10, 1948, in Des Plaines, Illinois, Dennis attended Maine West High School in Des Plaines. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in political science from Western Illinois University in 1970, and later received a Master of Business Administration from DePaul University in 1980.

He served his country with courage and honor for over 25 years. After his military career, Dennis joined the corporate world and was employed by Bridgestone Firestone, where he served as the National Health and Safety Manager for over 25 years.

Following retirement, Dennis and his wife, Husna Patel O'Connell, embarked on an adventure, traveling across the United States in their motorhome and embracing the joy of exploration and time spent together.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife, Husna Patel O'Connell; daughters Tracy O'Connell, Corrine O'Connell and her husband Chip Amati, and Erin and her husband Doug; son Edward O'Connell and his wife Lyla; and his grandchildren Alexander, Zachary, Odin, Aila, Una, and Nico. He is also survived by his sister Mary Ralston and brother Dan O'Connell.

For all those who had the privilege of knowing him, Dennis was a man of unwavering faith. He was a prayer warrior, generous, and committed to spreading love and kindness to everyone he encountered. He was pleasant to be around, good-natured, and always had a joke ready, no matter the circumstance. A deep thinker and avid reader, Dennis also had a passion for fishing and politics.

He will be dearly missed, but we rest in the blessed assurance that all who have believed and received Jesus as their Savior will see Dennis again.