Neil Christopher O'Connor
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Neil Christopher O'Connor, 39, passed away at home with his loving wife and family by his side in Eau Claire, WI on Friday, August 11, 2023, after his courageous battle with cancer.
Neil was born on July 26, 1984, in Faribault, MN to Byron and Linda (Caron) O'Connor and grew up on his family's farm in Medford, MN with his nine siblings. Neil's youth was filled with fun memories of growing up in a big family and working on the farm. At a very young age, Neil developed the strong work ethic that would continue for the remainder of his life. Neil graduated high school from Bethlehem Academy in 2003. He then attended college at the University of Minnesota-Duluth where he made life-long friendships. Neil graduated college in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. Once Neil graduated, he started his career in Winona, MN at Badger Construction as a Design Engineer where he enjoyed designing cranes. Neil met the love of his life, Krystle Marie Pagac, in 2011. Although their careers were different, they both had a strong work ethic and loved to laugh, help others, and entertain family and friends. They were married on January 11, 2014. After the wedding, Neil and Krystle moved to Eau Claire, WI. Neil worked as a Design Engineer at McDonough Manufacturing where he loved designing equipment for the timber industry, solving problems, and working with an excellent team of people. Neil and Krystle had two beautiful children together, Scarlett and Wyatt.
Even though Neil was a quiet person, he had a wonderful sense of humor and was a joker at heart. Neil could make anyone smile with his infectious laugh and clever shenanigans. Neil also had a drive to learn and to understand how things work. Neil had what he called "The Knack" which allowed him to build, solve, or fix anything. Neil's true passion, however, was being a father. Neil loved his children unconditionally. He loved being silly with his children and teaching them about his interests.
Neil leaves a legacy of love and humor that will be carried forward by his grieving family and friends. Neil is survived by his wife, Krystle; his wonderful children, Scarlett and Wyatt; his parents, Byron and Linda O'Connor; his siblings, Shaun (Michele) O'Connor, Tara (Dominic) Bjerke, Kate (Joe) Sanderson, Orion (Hayley) O'Connor, Cailin (Russ) Lehman, Alyssa O'Connor, Sara (Andy) Farriell, Quinn (Shelby) O'Connor and Brianna O'Connor; his grandmother Mary Alice O'Connor, and his in-laws Bob & Bobbi Pagac. Neil also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, countless friends, and all who were blessed to have known him.
Neil is preceded in death by his Grandparents, Cyril Caron, Geraldine Caron, Floyd O'Connor and several aunt and uncles.
A celebration mass will take place at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 1712 Highland Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701, at 10:30 am on Saturday, September 23, 2023. Following mass, a Celebration of Life will be held in The Loft at Dixon's Autumn Harvest Winery, 19947 Co Hwy J, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 at 12:30pm. All are welcome and encouraged to attend, share memories, and celebrate Neil's life.
Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral & Cremation Services, Eau Claire is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.lenmarkfh.com.