Michael "Mike" Patrick O'Connell of Celebration, FL passed away peacefully on Friday October, 24th in his home in Hunt Valley, Maryland, at the age of 82.

He was born and raised in Ridgewood, New Jersey to Francis and Annie (McLaughlin) O'Connell. Mike was a dedicated husband to his wife Bonnie for nearly 58 years, and devoted father to his three children Gavin, Lea, and Amy. He was a proud "Da" and Grandpa to Will, Tommy, and Veronica, and a loyal friend to many.

Mike called Mountain Lakes, New Jersey home since 1979 where he raised his family. He served the community as a member of the Solid Waste Committee, and the Shade Tree Committee. Mike valued his Laker friends and was a proud founding member of the "Muffin Men", established in 1984 at Paul's Diner by three friends who split one muffin with their morning coffee. The Muffin Men grew in numbers to a much larger informal fraternity of self-described aging curmudgeons, whose companionship brought him much laughter and joy.

A man of integrity, and strength he valued hard work and honesty. His working life began early after the passing of his dad when he was twelve years old. A graduate of Ridgewood High School, Mike attended Hagerstown College and Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mike proudly served in the Marine Corps Reserve for six years and later became a Manufacture's Rep for several furniture companies. Mike's easy personality made him a natural salesman, and he built lasting friendships with his clients. Upon retirement he worked as a TSA Agent at Newark International Airport - a job he loved!

Mike's most important role and greatest joy was being a Dad and a Grandpa. He built a tree house, coached soccer and softball and never missed a game, meet or dance recital-EVER.  He loved being a snowbird between Maryland and Florida, where he spoiled his grandchildren with trips to Disney, Legoland, Universal, and Gatorland. He will always be remembered for his famous CCPCs (chocolate chip pancakes)!

Michael's kindness, wit, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends will never be forgotten. He was preceded in death by his son Gavin in 2021. Mike leaves behind his wife Bonnie, his daughters Lea (Michael), Andrew and Amy (David) Witherspoon and his grandchildren William, Thomas and Veronica. He is also survived by his brother Dan, his nephew Patrick, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Mike will be forever loved and remembered. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to:

Andrew's Laughing Gas at www.andrewslaughinggas.org

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.peacefulalternatives.com