April 24, 1921~December 24, 2004

Ordained September 24, 1944

Visitations were held at St. Luke's Church in River Forest, Illinois on December 29th.  Internment is at St. Joseph's Cemetery.  Father is survived by his dear sister, Mary Elizabeth, and seventeen nieces and nephews.

After serving as assistant at St. Joseph's in Rock Island for three years, Fr. O'Connor was appointed the first Principal of Alleman High School in August of 1949 at the age of 29. 

First Principal of
Alleman High School

1949 - 1967

He opened the doors to 615 students and was told early on that if he didn't take charge - the students would.  That was one job at which he didn't want to fail.  Fr. O'Connor was strict, kind and fair and could be an imposing figure when he wanted to be.  He left his mark on the "little ol' school" by establishing a tradition of excellence in academics and extra-curricular activities.

After leaving Alleman, Father was appointed pastor of St. Anne's Parish in East Moline from 1967 to 1972 when he took a leave due to illness.  Upon his return, he was appointed pastor of St. Mary's in El Paso, IL from 1973 until his retirement in 1991.

Fr. O'Connor last returned to Alleman for the 50th Anniversary celebration of the high school in 1999.

A scholarship fund has been established at the high school in his memory.  Contributions may be sent to:
Fr. O'Connor Scholarship, Alleman Development Office, 1103 40th Street, Rock Island, IL  61201.