Obituary of Richard D. O'Connell

Life time Bridgeport Resident OCONNELL- Richard D. Chick OConnell, age 82, of Bridgeport, a retired postal worker of 38 years, died peacefully on Friday, April 23, 2010 in Bridgeport Hospital. The son of the late Arthur E. and Caroline Schelke OConnell, Chick was born on, August 29, 1927 in Bridgeport. He was a member of Sylvan Crest Seniors and Bridgeport Postal Service Credit Union. In addition to his devoted wife of 54 years, Mary Mascia OConnell, survivors include his son, Richard A. OConnell and his wife Maryanne of Trumbull, a daughter Marybeth A. Kiely and her husband William of Naugatuck, his son Robert OConnell and his wife Nancy of Maplewood, NJ.; eight grandchildren, Matthew, Brian and Jillianne O Connell, Billy and Ryan Kiely, Robbie, Sarah and Kate OConnell; as well as, several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by four brothers and a sister. Chick was a graduate of Central High School in Bridgeport, where he received letters all four years in baseball and football. Following High School, he graduated from Fairfield University, earning a degree in Sociology. Chick served his country as a PFC in the Army Air Corps from 1945 through 1947. An avid sports fan, Chick enjoyed watching all sports. Chick served as an FCIAC football official and baseball umpire, and as an ASA softball umpire. Chick also was involved in the North End Little League as a coach and league official. He experienced his greatest joy in watching his grandchildren in their sports endeavors and dance recitals. Funeral Information Family and friends may call on Tuesday, April 27, 2010, from 4-8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, April 28, 2010, at 8:30 in the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull and 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Bridgeport. Interment will be private at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, in Trumbull. Donations Information In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Good Counsel Church and St. Judes Childrens Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.