Obituary of Edward James O'Connell

"Edward J. O'Connell, 86, of Warner Rd., died Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Springfield, November 13, 1921. A graduate of Cathedral High School, he served in the Army Air Force during WWII. Upon discharge from the service he worked for Groll's Bakery in Springfield and then for the A & P Bakery in Springfield, retiring in 1979 after 30 years of service. Although a long time Springfield resident, he also lived in Boston, South Portland, ME and 20 years in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. In August of last year he moved to Belchertown. He was a member of the Moose, the VFW and the American Legion in Florida. He was an avid sports fan enjoying Patriots football, basketball and hockey. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 65 years, Yolanda (Desideri) O'Connell, along with two sons, James E. and his wife Lynne of Pittsfield, and Mark A. and his wife Lori of Belchertown. He also leaves a sister Jean Barna and her husband John of Wilbraham, along with 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Mr. O'Connell was preceded in death by seven siblings. A memorial mass will be held Saturday, March 1 at 12:00 p.m. at All Saints Catholic Church in Ware. Friends may pay their respects to the family at the church from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. prior to the mass. Those wishing may make donations in his memory to the Children's Study Home, 44 Sherman St., Springfield, 01109. (www.studyhome.org) or a charity of ones choice. "