Obituary of Paul J. OA?Connor

Paul J. O?Connor Jr., 73, of Syracuse, New York died Saturday, August 20, 2005 surrounded by his family and loved ones. Paul was born March 13, 1932 in Auburn, New York, the son of Paul J. and Elizabeth (Hart) O'Connor. He worked in the newspaper business for 46 years and retired from the Post Standard in 1996 after 34 years of service. After retirement, he enjoyed camping at Riverforest Park, Weedsport and Brennan?s Bay, Sandy Pond. He was an avid SU fan. Paul is survived by his wife of 55 years, Joan (Behm) O'Connor of Syracuse, New York; his seven children, Patty Gersbacher of Liverpool, New York, Paul J. III (Diane) O'Connor of Timmonsville, South Carolina, Sue (John) Besten of East Syracuse, New York, Kathy Durkin of Clay, New York, Debbie (Tony) Garafolo of Onondaga Hill, New York, Dan (Juanita) O'Connor of Camillus, New York and Joanie (John) Mahar of Onondaga Hill, New York; one brother, Patrick O'Connor of Syracuse, New York; 20 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Services: Tuesday, August 23, 2005, 10:30 a.m. at Ballweg & Lunsford Funeral Home and 11:00 a.m. in St. James Church, 4845 S. Salina St., Syracuse where a Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated. Burial: St. Mary's Cemetery, 4100 E. Genesee Street, Dewitt, New York. Calling Hours: Monday, August 22, 2005, 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home, 4612 S. Salina Street, Syracuse, New York. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Paul?s grandson, Michael O?Connor Kidney Transplant Fund, c/o Kathy Durkin, 8203 Sarona Lane, Clay, New York 13041.