Yuma, AZ – William James O’Connell, 61, passed away on July 18, 2017 in Yuma, AZ. Born in Springfield on April 6, 1956, he was the first son of James F. Jr. and Maryjane O’Connell. He was educated in the Westfield Public Schools and graduated from Westfield High School, Class of 1974. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Colorado. After discharge from the Military, he worked and lived in Wyoming and Alaska. He returned to Westfield in the early 1980’s and spent many years working for the Westfield Gas & Electric Company, until his retirement. In September, 2016, he relocated to Yuma, AZ with his wife Susan. In his early years, Bill was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying skiing, boating and fishing and spent time with family and friends on the lake in Otis. He was looking forward to kayaking in Arizona. He loved living in Arizona and thrived in the warm desert sun.
Bill is survived by his wife Susan LeBlanc, in Yuma, a son Ryan of Long Beach, CA, 2 step-sons Derek (Holly) LeBlanc in Germany, and Kyle LeBlanc in Texas and a step-daughter Kimberly LeBlanc in New York. He also leaves his mother Maryjane O’Connell, 3 brothers, John (Sara), David (Christine) of Westfield, and Barry (Antonia) of Worcester; an Aunt Teresa Duclos, an Uncle David J. O’Connell and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by his father James F. O’Connell, Jr. Funeral arrangements are private with burial at the convenience of the family.
