CHATHAM — Donald E. O'Connor passed away peacefully on October 28, 2023, at the age of 84.

Don was born the sixth child of David and Catherine O'Connor in Yonkers, NY. His father died when Don was in fifth grade, and his mother eventually settled in Chatham which Don always considered his home. He graduated from Chatham High School in 1957 and was well known as an outstanding basketball and football athlete. Shortly after high school he began a long and proud career as an electrical lineman with New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) and then working as a union electrician and foreman (IBEW Local 1249) for various contractors in upstate New York.

In retirement, Don enjoyed travel and meeting up with friends for lunch and a few beers. He enjoyed his private time, reading, and staying current with the news, but true to his Irish bloodline he loved hearing and telling stories … and the bigger the better, and especially when there was belly-laughing at the end. Watching football, basketball, baseball, and golf were also things he enjoyed.

Don is survived by his children: David (Leslie) O'Connor, Donald (Susan) O'Connor, Darrin O'Connor, and Mary (Scott Geel) O'Connor; and by his step-children: Lori (John) Sims and Kris Sprague. Along with his parents and five siblings, he was predeceased by his beloved wife Carol "Nan" (Swift) O'Connor.

Funeral services will be private. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.