HOPEWELL JUNCTION – Paul M. O'Connor, 78, an area resident since 1970, died unexpectedly on August 4, 2021 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center.

Born in the Bronx on June 29, 1943, Paul was the son of the late Richard and Mary (Fox) O'Connor. He was a graduate of Cardinal Hayes High School where he was active in several sports. He then graduated from Manhattan College. He was employed for over 30 years as a Professional Civil Engineer for Nigro Brothers Contracting in Mount Vernon, and later retired from Tilcon, New York in 2011.

Paul was a life member of the 3rd and 4th Degree Knights of Columbus #1646 in Wappingers Falls. He served in many positions including as a Faithful Navigator and was an active Color Corps member. He was a parishioner at St. Denis Church and was active with St. Denis Hearts and Hands Outreach. In his free time, Paul enjoyed spending time outside tending to his yard, staying active at the gym, or watching a good sporting event. When he was home relaxing, he could always be found with a late-night bowl of ice cream. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, attending school and sporting events of his children and grandchildren.

On October 7, 1967 Paul married Diane Powers in Amityville, New York. His wife of over 53 years survives at home. He is also survived by his children and their spouses, Katherine and Peter Nikolski of Poughkeepsie, Keri-Ann and James Byrne of Charlottesville, VA, and Kevin and Jackie O'Connor of Willard, MO; his grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Pop-Pop," Bridget, Grace, and Mary Therese Nikolski, Jack, Kevin, Thomas, and Meghan Byrne, Maizie Dean and her husband Taylor, Benjamin Parker, and William O'Connor; his brother, Richard O'Connor and his wife Mary Jane; his brother-in-law, Kevin Carberry; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was also predeceased by his sister, Catherine Carberry.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday from 2 – 6 pm at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Monday at 11 am at St. Denis Church, 602 Beekman Road, Hopewell Junction followed by burial at St. Denis Cemetery.

Donations may be made in Paul's memory to Juvenile Diabetes Foundation or Parkinson's Foundation. Please visit Paul's Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.