Michael David O’Connell, Sr., 73 of Allegan, Michigan, passed away early Friday morning, October 1, 2021 at Holland Hospital. Born December 17, 1947 in Allegan, Michigan, he was the son of the late James Joseph and Amelia (Hinkle) O’Connell and the husband of his only true love, Donna Jean (Stratton) O’Connell. Michael graduated from Allegan High School and went on to work for MI DOT for 38 years before retiring in 2002. After retirement, he drove for the Allegan County Transport Bus for 10 years. Michael loved having a large family and enjoyed watching all the grandchildren grow. He enjoyed teaching the grandchildren how to ski, snowmobile, hunt, camp, roller skate, play games and roadside pick-up, along with many other activities. Michael was known for his homemade pizza and potato dumplings. He was always there for his family and was very protective of them. People could count on him to be there for them and lend a hand, if not anything else that was needed. Giving, loving, protective, kind – all these words are less than adequate for the true man that he was. He has left a giant void in the lives of so many.

Michael is survived by his wife of 46 years, Donna; two stepsons, Gilbert (Kathi) Snyder of Hopkins, South Carolina and Larry (Kay) Snyder of Otstego, Michigan; his brother, Robert O’Connell; his sister, Patricia Mackey; his sister-in-law, Judy O’Connell; 11 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Michael David O’Connell, Jr. of Allegan, Michigan; his brothers, James (Lois) O’Connell, Roy O’Connell; his sister, Linda (Larry) Lange; his sister-in-law, Naomi O’Connell; and his brother-in-law, John Mackey.

Friends may meet with the family at St. John Lutheran Church (1764 34th St., Allegan, MI 49010; corner of M-40 and 34th St.) on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 from 4:00 to 5:00 PM, at which time A Celebration of Life will begin at 5:00 PM with a reception to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Michael’s name to the American Kidney Foundation (www.kidneyfund.org), 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20852. Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, is assisting the family with arrangements.