Marian J. O'Connell
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Marian J. O'Connell passed away on June 2, 2022 in Madison, WI. She was born on Dec 26, 1933, along with her twin sister Marilyn, in Minneapolis, MN. to Tracy and Anna Page. In addition to Marilyn, Marian had 3 other sisters (Jean, Carol, and Nancy) and one brother (Tracy). Marian grew up in Minneapolis, but many of her summers were spent on Clam Lake, WI. at her family's cabin where she enjoyed swimming and playing with her family and friends. She attended college at the University of Minnesota and graduated with a teaching degree in Home Economics in 1956. Early on, Marian developed a passion for the outdoors. This was enhanced while working in Yellowstone National Park during the summers she attended college. Her first job after college was as a teacher in Montgomery, MN.
Marian Page met Paul O'Connell at the Kolacky day dance near Montgomery in October,1956. Marian and Paul were married on June 29, 1957 in Minneapolis and were married for almost 65 years. They had four children--Barbara, Patrick, James and Daniel, who all survive their mother.
With Marian's unwavering support, Paul pursued his educational and vocational goals. Even while the family moved frequently to all areas of the United States, Marian remained steadfast in her ability to provide a warm and loving home. They settled in Rockville, Maryland where, eventually, Marian returned to the teaching profession, specializing in the instruction of developmentally disadvantaged students. She was able to transfer the warmth and care she had provided at home to the classroom and was greatly admired by her students and peers.
Marian and Paul enjoyed the Washington D.C. lifestyle and took advantage of the numerous cultural opportunities in that community. At one time, they even owned a boat on the Chesapeake Bay. After retiring, Marian greatly enjoyed traveling and was able to enjoy multiple river cruises in Europe and Asia. In addition, she and Paul made several trips to New Zealand, Australia, and Hawaii.
In 2008, Marian and Paul relocated to Las Cruces, New Mexico. The warmer climate suited their active lifestyle. Marian soon made many close friends and quickly assimilated herself into the culture of this community. She became an integral member of the Unitarian church congregation and participated in multiple church activities.
The family would like to thank the caregivers in New Mexico who assisted Marian. In addition, the family recognizes the care provided by SSM Health in Madison. Final arrangements are pending.
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Cress Center
6021 University Ave. Madison
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