Thomas J. O’Connell, Jr, 79, of Berwick, passed away on Saturday July 15, 2017 at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on February 25, 1938 in Manhattan, NY, he was the son of the late Agnes (Isterling) and Thomas J. O’Connell, Sr. Thomas served honorably in the US Navy from 1955 until 1959. For over 45 years, he was a member of the Plumbers and Steamfitters Union, starting at Local #1 New York City, then transferring to Local #269, Newberg, which merged and became #373 Mountainville, NY.
Thomas, known to many as “TommieO” or “Pop Pop”, was a life member of the AMVETS, Post 93 in Nescopeck, and a member of the military honor guard. He was a lieutenant in the Berwick Fire Police where he was the current treasurer and held several offices throughout his time there. He was also a member of West Berwick Hose Company, where he served as past president as well as other offices.
Thomas gave most of his spare time to helping the community. He also loved to spend time with his grandchildren. In the past, he enjoyed camping and playing cards.
He will be greatly missed by his wife of 31 years, Josephine M. (Curran) O’ Connell, Berwick; her daughters, Linda L. Haines and partner Tammy Morris, Berwick; and Lisa M. Naus, Berwick. He is also survived by sons: Thomas O’Connell; Christopher O’Connell and wife Ann Marie; Michael O’Connell and wife Rose, all from NY; 10 grandchildren, including Taylor and Brandon Naus, with whom he had a special relationship; sister, Arlene Pagno and husband John, NY; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister in infancy.
A viewing will be held from 6-8 pm on Tuesday July, 18, 2017 at Heller Funeral Home, LLC, 633 East Third Street, Nescopeck, and Wednesday July 19, 2017 from 9-10 am, followed by a grave side service, with military honors, in Elan Memorial Park. Reverend Francis J. Tamburro will officiate.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 3-7 pm on Sunday, July 23, 2017 at VFW Post 821, 1408 West Front Street, Berwick.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Berwick Fire Police, 1437 Fairview Avenue, Berwick, PA 18603.
Online messages of comfort may be sent to condolences@hellerfuneral.com.