Lasting Memories

Robert E. O'Connell
1924-Feb. 28, 2006
Kauai, Hawaii

Robert E. O'Connell III, who became an artist after a career in banking and land development, died February 28 in Kauai in the Hawaiian Islands after a short illness. He was 82.

Mr. O'Connell was born in Redwood City and graduated from Sequoia High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy after high school and served as a quartermaster aboard the destroyer escort, USS Melville, during World War II. After returning to Redwood City, he worked as a bank manager for First National and Wells Fargo banks. He later became a building contractor with many local projects, including the townhouses located on Avy Avenue across from the post office in West Menlo Park.

After retiring, he moved to Ajijic, Mexico, where he became a known artist before moving to Kauai, say family members.

Mr. O'Connell is survived by his children, Dan of Kauai, Lynda Jones of Klamath River, Barbara O'Connell of Menlo Park, and Jody O'Connell of Eagle, Colorado; sister Peggy O'Connell of Redwod City, brother Jack O'Connell of Cottage Grove, Oregon; his former wife of 33 years, Mary Landis of Redwood City; and six grandchildren.