Charles Henry O'Connor's Obituary
Charles "Chic" O'Connor, 90, of Longview, passed away Thursday afternoon April 22, 2010 at a local hospice facility with his family by his side. Services will be Monday April 26, 2010 at 10:00am at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Longview with Monsignor Gerald Priest officiating. Visitation will be Sunday 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Rader Funeral Home in Longview with a Rosary at 6:00pm after officiated by Deacon Dennis Gilchrist.
Chic was born October 9, 1919 in Hamilton, Ontario Canada to Jeremiah Patrick O'Connor and Hazel Dell Marquett O'Connor. Chic was a proud and honored member of the Knights of Columbus since 1943. Mr. O'Connor was retired from the steel industry since 1983. In 1968 Chic was instrumental in starting Special Olympics in Gregg County. Chic's involvement in Special Olympics began because of his daughter Monica. Little did he realize that it would begin a lifestyle that would benefit hundred of individuals over a span of forty plus years. Monica and Chic's involvement in Special Olympics has slowed down over the past couple years due to health matters. However, Monica's medals, hundred of them mainly gold, speak volumes for the entire family – Monica is the athlete with the best support system ever. The O'Connor family has been everything from timers, huggers, chaperones and pizza provider for the entire Gregg county delegation and Area events. A state competition with Monica O'Connor meant that every O'Conner would be in attendance. With Coach Chic at the helm!
Chic was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years Madeline Burley O'Connor. He is survived by his children Dr. Charles Gary O'Connor and wife Connie, Marlene Hlavsa and husband, Barry; Dr. Daniel O'Connor, Debra McCubbin and husband, Rex; Darrell O'Connor and wife Cindy; Monica O'Connor, Shawn O'Connor and wife, Melissa; eleven Grandchildren and seven Great grandchildren; Sisters Patricia and her husband Norm Boyd; Gloria and her husband Larry Paron; Brothers, Bob and his wife Helen O'Connor, Bill and his wife June O'Connor, and Tom O'Connor The family asks that memorial donations be made to the athletes of East Texas Lightnin, 606 Garfield, Longview Texas 75602
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