Cpt. John Patrick O'Connor

Cpt. John Patrick O'Connor

United States Army, retired
May 8, 1943 January 25, 2025

CSM John P. O'Connor, best known as "JP", passed away on Saturday January 25, 2025 in Tucson, AZ. He was the son of Grace T. O'Connor and John J. O'Connor. He was born on May 8, 1943 in Philadelphia, PA. He is preceded in death by his father, mother and sister, Catherine White.

He is survived by his wife, Hideko (best known as Heidi) O'Connor. They met while he was deployed in Okinawa, Japan. He walked passed her business window and was struck by her beauty. Even though he didn't speak Japanese nor did she speak English, their love language was expressed at the airport watching planes take off and land. This first date was their beginning of a lifelong romance. His children, Denise O'Connor, John O'Connor Jr. and Rory O'Connor. Each of whom, he mentored a life of honor, integrity and commitment. His grandchildren, John O'Connor III, Caitlin O'Connor, and Rory O'Connor Jr., whom he instilled the value of education and the love of learning. His great grandson, John O'Connor IV, whom he adored FaceTiming with smiles and giggles.

For 31 years CSM O'Connor dutifully served as a soldier. Though his highest rank in the military is as Captain, CSM O'Connor served as the Garrison Command Sargeant Major of the US Army Fort Huachuca, AZ. He reminisced fondly of his time as Commandant of The NCO Academy. He was inducted into Military Intelligence Hall of Fame in 2003. Outside of work, "JP" was an avid reader, world traveler and spent time biking around Sierra Vista on his trike.

JP's mass service will be held at St Andrew The Apostle Parish on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. His Celebration of Life will be held at Elks Lodge on Sunday February 2, 2025 at 12 noon. His Military Honor burial will be held at Arlington National Cemetery on TBD.

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to Warrior Healing Center 1838 Paseo San Luis, Sierra Vista, AZ. 85635 (520)221-4093

(obiturary written by family)

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