Obituary of Lawrence Joseph O'Connor

LAWRENCE JOSEPH O'CONNOR Lawrence O'Connor, age 81, passed away at home on November 15, 2009 at the age of 81. He was born on January 20, 1928 in Pittsburgh, PA where he grew up and worked. He worked as a longshoreman and with the Merchant Marines during WWII. Lawrence also served in the Army as a Corporal in Korea. After his discharge he settled in Southern California spending most of his time in Cypress. He worked for Bell System for 35 years and after retirement he went to work for McDonnell Douglas Credit Union for 5 years. His wife Donna passed away in December of 2002 and he moved to the Vancouver area shortly after. He liked the ponies and would bet online. His family was most important to him. He is survived by his daughter, Robin Melillo and son-in-law, Jim Sayre of Vancouver; son, William O'Connor and daughter-in-law, Rachel O'Connor of Vancouver; grandchildren, David Shaddix, Kayley, Jacob & Wesley O'Connor; great grandchildren Bryce & Ethan Shaddix. Graveside services will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Cypress, CA. Straub's Funeral Home & Columbia River Cremation in Camas was in charge of the arrangements. To send condolences or to sign the online guestbook visit www.straubsfuneralhome.com.