James "Jim" Carl O'Connell, age 81, U.S. Army veteran, of LaGrange, passed away on August 18, 2022.

Born to Irving and Louise Erickson on July 13, 1941. Beloved husband of Joan P. O'Connell (nee Hodgson) for an adventurous 59 years. Loving father of Beth (Tony) Anderson and Courtnay O'Connell. Devoted grandfather of Andrew and Kyle Anderson, and Grace (Matt) Lane. Cherished brother of Christine O'Connell, Henry O'Connell, and Richard O'Connell. Dear brother-in-law of Kevin (Carolyn) Hodgson. Fond uncle of Conley and Hannah Phelps, Colin (Debbie) O'Connell, Sara and Amy Hodgson, and Pilar O'Connell.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Dennis (Lynn Ojala) O'Connell, Sara O'Connell, and John O'Connell.

Jim was a proud graduate of Loyola Academy (Class of 1959), Marquette University (Class of 1963), and Loyola University School of Law (Class of 1974). Upon graduation as a Distinguished Military Graduate (ROTC) from Marquette University, Jim was commissioned as an officer and spent three years in the United States Army in Mannheim, Germany. His next assignment was with the Transportation Corps in Vietnam and then was assigned to Okinawa for two years. After resigning his military commission, Jim attended Loyola University Law School. Upon graduation he was hired as a Special Assistant in the Illinois Attorney General's Office. Ultimately, Jim became the Chief of the Welfare Litigation Division.

Over the years, Jim and Joan traveled extensively throughout Europe and Asia. For decades, Jim was an avid Ham Radio Operator (W9WU) which afforded him the opportunity to make numerous contacts around the world and thereby developing many treasured friendships both in U.S. and abroad. In addition, he was a long-time member of the Northern Illinois DX Association.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 26, 2022, from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside, where a funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.