Gary

O'Connell

Gary L. O’Connell

Frankenmuth, MI

Passed away peacefully after a short illness with family by his side on Monday, November 9, 2026 at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit; age 84 years. Gary was born on March 24, 1942 to the late Clifford and Esther O’Connell. He honorably served in the U.S Navy. Gary married Tina on March 7, 1963. He worked as a supervisor at General Motors until his retirement. Gary was a member of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, Frankenmuth Conservation Club, Frankenmuth Jaycees, Rotary, and the American Legion Post 150 serving on their honor guard and raising the flag before football games. Gary was a volunteer at his church, he could always be found helping to serve beer at many festivals, he mowed the baseball fields and delivered meals for Meals on Wheels. Some of his passions were hunting, fishing, golfing and watching sports, but most of all he loved his family, friends, and community.

Surviving besides his wife Tina are their children Catherine (Alan Blatnikoff) O’Connell Luke, Karen (Randy) Stehlik, Michelle (Gregg) McDonald; 10 grandchildren Alexandra (Thatcher), William, Isabella, Leah (Cam), Jamie, Jacob, Spencer (Annalise), Andrew, Lucas, Ella; 1 great-grandchild Sophia; brother and sisters Sharon (Mohamed Sabet) O’Connell, Sandy House, Dennis (Rene) O’Connell, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his brother-in-law Clint House, and best friend Paul Stoffel.

Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, November 20, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, 958 E. Tuscola St. Frankenmuth, MI. Fr. Patrick Jankowiak will officiate. Gary’s family will receive visitors at Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth, 590 N. Franklin St. Frankenmuth, on Thursday the 19th from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and at the church on Friday the 20th from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. There will be a prayer service at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday the 19th at the funeral home, during this time there will be time for sharing of memories. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Blessed Trinity Catholic Church or Meals on Wheels.