Samuel "Sam" Harry O'Connor

Mount Pleasant – Samuel “Sam” Harry O’Connor, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home on October 10, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on June 30, 1938, in Racine, Wisconsin, Sam was the proud son of Leonard and Emily (nee Heinen) O’Connor. He shared a special closeness with his twin sister, Sandra Rogers. On September 21, 1968, Sam united in marriage with the love of his life, Barbara Jean Voge, embarking on a beautiful journey of 56 years filled with love and partnership. He worked for the J.I. Case Company for 30 years and enjoyed a long retirement. A lifetime member of Racine Instinctive Bowman, Sam was an avid outdoorsman whose passion for hunting and fishing was rivaled only by his love for his family. He treasured the serenity of nature, the open waters, and the excitement of the hunt. Sam also enjoyed a game or two or three of Cribbage with his sons and a “Jim Beam and water.” Family was at the heart of Sam’s life. His love and devotion to his wife, children, and grandchildren were evident in everything he did. Though dementia took so much from him in his final years, his spirit remained strong, and he is remembered for his kindness, humor, and unwavering love. Sam will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Barbara O’Connor; his sons: Bryan (Ramona) O’Connor, Scott O’Connor and his very special friend, Barbara Poisl, and Jeffrey (Stephanie Draus) O’Connor; and his daughter, Bonnie Buhk Dugan. He is also cherished by his grandsons: Clayton (Cody McDonald) O’Connor and Jacob O’Connor, as well as Jacob’s son, Finn O’Connor. Sam will be deeply missed by his brothers and sisters-in-law: Edward O’Connor, David (Karen) O’Connor, and Evelyn O’Connor; along with his brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, Gary (Mary) Voge, Joyce Brook and Arlene Say. He is further survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Emily O’Connor; his in-laws, Verne and Genevieve Voge; his daughter, Lynda Petersen; his siblings: Leonard Jr. (Lois) O’Connor, Sandra (Dale) Rogers, Robert O’Connor and sister-in-law, Bonnie O’Connor. He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Wilfred (June) Voge, as well as several nephews. A celebration of life in honor of Sam will be held for family and close friends on November 3, 2024. As we remember Sam, let us celebrate a life filled with love for family and the great outdoors. His gentle spirit and devotion to family will live on in our hearts. Though he has left this world, his legacy of kindness and joy will continue to inspire us. May he rest in peace. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making a memorial contribution to the Alzheimer's Association, 620 S. 76th Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53214, or by visiting https://www.alz.org to donate online. Your generosity will help further the fight against this disease that impacted Sam and so many others.

Samuel "Sam" Harry O'Connor

June 30, 1938 - October 10, 2024