Tom O’Connell

Tom O'Connell, age 54, of Grandville, died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on Friday, July 3, 2015. Tom was born in Toledo, Ohio and graduated from East Kentwood High School in 1979. He spent most of life working in sporting goods, most recently at Holwerda-Snoap Sporting Goods in Grand Rapids. Tom and his wife Robin, of 27 years, shared a beautiful love story that will never end. He was also an incredibly loving and proud father to his daughters, Brynne and Jason Dika, and Carly O'Connell. Tom was passionate about serving in youth ministry and was an advocate for mental health. He will be remembered for his extraordinary kindness, humor, selflessness, and strong faith, and was a huge encourager to those around him. Some of his favorite things included his beloved pets, sports/exercise, and Mountain Dew. Tom was preceded in death by his father, Barney O'Connell and sister, Susan O'Connell. In addition to his wife and daughters, he will be lovingly remembered by his supportive mother, Bee O'Connell; brother, Tim and Carol O'Connell; sisters, Shannon and Skip Walker, Terri and Rick Louder; and several nieces and nephews. His family would like to thank his compassionate and skilled doctors for their exceptional care: Dr. Oliver Grin, Dr. Bryan Figueroa, Dr. Wendy Sherman, and Dr. W. Christian VandenBerg. Relatives and friends may meet the family on Tuesday, July 7, from 12-2 and 5-7pm at Mars Hill Bible Church, 3501 Fairlanes Ave. SW, Grandville. A celebration of Tom's life will be held on Wednesday, July 8, at 11am at Mars Hill Bible Church. Due to construction, please use the entrance off of 36th Street by the Holiday Inn Express.Those who wish may make memorial contributions to The Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan or Mars Hill Bible Church.

Matthew 25:21 "Well done, my good and faithful servant."