Dennis Michael O’Connor
October 26, 1950 - February 13, 2020
Irvine CA
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Dennis Michael O’Connor
October 26, 1950 - February 13, 2020
Irvine CA
Obituary
Born in Chicago in October of 1950, and raised in Altadena, California, Dennis Michael O’Connor spent most of his life in Southern California on what many might call a hero’s journey. Upon graduating from the USC School of Medicine, he did a residency in pediatrics, to the joy of the many families he looked after. Loving the children, but not so much the parents, he left his pediatric practice and did a second residency, this time in anesthesia. He found his niche there and made many lifelong friends, two of whom were by his side during his last days.
If James Lipton were to ask Dennis what his favorite word was, he would have replied “resident.” Teaching anesthesia residents was for Dennis a source of joy as well as a fountain of youth. After residents graduated from the program, he looked forward to seeing them at anesthesia meetings and was buoyed by their close connection which spanned decades.
That said, it was in May of 1998 that Dennis truly began to experience the joie de vivre that many only long for. With the birth of Fergus Patrick Daniel O’Connor, he found his true calling: that of being a father. Let it be known that there has never been a father who so desired to know his child. Dennis did not seek to mold Fergus into his preconceived image of what a son should be. No, Dennis sought to nurture and bring out who Fergus was in his deep heart’s core. He also exposed Fergus to his own interests — books and film — while Fergus reciprocated with his love of Legos, Star Wars, and photography.
Like many with Irish roots, Dennis was a passionate and highly principled individual. In addition, he had a way of making others feel like they were the only one in the room. Lives were changed. His memory will live on in a profound way. That is a certainty. Simply put: He lit up the room, and those who were impacted by him will do the same.
Requiescat in pace, Dennis Michael O’Connor.
Funeral Service
- Date & Time: February 29, 2020 (10:00 AM)
- Venue: O'Connor Mortuary
- Location: 25301 Alicia Parkway Laguna Hills, CA 92653 - (Get Directions)
- Phone Number: (949) 581-4300
14 responses to Dennis Michael O’Connor
Bonnie Brewster says:
February 19, 2020
I’m so sorry for your loss Elaine, you are in my thoughts and prayers. If Dennis was anything like you, he was an amazing person!
Carolyn Farmer says:
February 19, 2020
Dear Elaine and Fergus, I’m praying for you during this sad and difficult time.
Noreen Abb Burns Kimelman says:
February 19, 2020
I am so very sorry for your loss. This is a very hard time in life and I truly hope you find comfort in memories and his smile. I will miss him.
Patty Le-Narula says:
February 19, 2020
Elaine and Fergus, I can only imagine what you are going through. I’m so sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Anice katz says:
February 20, 2020
Elaine and Fergus
We are so very sorry for your loss. Our hearts and prayers are with you during this difficult time
Love,
Anice and Stephanie