Eric John O'Connell, a native to St. Johns, Michigan, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on June 9, 2024 at the age of 62.

Eric was born on January 30, 1962 to Joseph and Mae O'Connell. He married Marilyn Moore on January 30, 1985 and together they had two daughters, Rhonda and Kyle. He worked various jobs throughout his life. Besides his family, his greatest joy in life was his only grandson, his best buddy Dillon. Eric enjoyed spending time with his family fishing, building model cars and playing video games with his grandson. He had a smile that could light up a room. He was a fighter right to the end with never a complaint. Eric spent his time at the hospital making new friends, smiling, joking, and just spreading joy. He will be greatly missed by all.

Eric is survived by his wife, Marilyn O'Connell; daughters, Rhonda (Bill) Moore, Kyle O'Connell; best buddy and grandson, Dillon Yager; sisters, Diana Schumann, Lorretta (Bob) Bowling, Lisa Larkin; brothers, Neil (April) O'Connell, Terry (Sally) O'Connell; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and many family friends.

Eric was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mae (Snyder) O'Connell; brother, Bryan O'Connell; aunts and uncles, Guy (Mary) Snyder, Barbra Hawkins, Donnis Redman, Ellen (Everett) Martens, Carolee (Jim) Fenner, Larry (Lorena) O'Connell, Tom O'Connell, Bud (Gracie) O'Connell, Jean (Harold) O'Connell, Helen (Russ) O'Connell, Rosie (Roman) Rademacher; and best friend, Jennifer Hoag.

There will be a Celebration of Life with immediate O'Connell family at Motz Park in St. Johns on June 23, 2024 at 1pm. A Memorial Gathering for family and friends will follow later this summer.