Daniel O’Connell

Retired United States Marine Corp Major Daniel John O’Connell, 78, of Nederland, passed away peacefully Saturday morning on June 1, 2019. He was born November 27, 1940, in Sharon, Connecticut, to Ruth Swain O’Connell and Eugene Daniel O’Connell.

Dan served in the United States Marine Corp for thirty years. He began as a Private and worked his way up to a Major. He served two tours in Vietnam and was awarded many commendations and medals. He retired as a part of Aviation Ordnance.

He was also an Eagle Scout. He had always been supportive of the Boy Scouts of America and served in many leadership roles with the Eastern North Carolina Troop and Council. For the last ten years, he supported the Nederland local Troop 232 where his two grandsons also earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

Dan loved to read, especially about the Civil War. He also enjoyed cooking and sitting on the front porch. Most of all, he loved being with his family and friends. He was love by all and will be greatly missed.

Survivors include his daughter, Jeannette Lorraine O’Connell Suire and her husband, Christopher Paul Suire; five grandchildren, Bradley, Kimberly, Wesley, Emily, and Makynnly Suire; great-grandson, Beckett Suire; sister, Mary Elizabeth O’Connell Friedman; niece, Sharon Ann Brigham Spratt; and nephews, Rob, Jeff, Scott, and Chris Brigham.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ruth and Eugene O’Connell; his oldest sister, Barbara Ann O’Connell Brigham; and nephew, Mark Brigham.

Major O’Connell’s committal will be held Friday, July 5, 2019, at Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont, under the direction of Broussard’s, 505 North 12th Street, Nederland. Military Honors will be presented by the Southeast Texas Veterans Service Group. A gathering of his family and friends will follow at his home to celebrate his life.