
He grew up in Connecticut graduating from Pomperaug High School. John retired from the Air Force. He also worked for BIW retiring in 2009.
John enjoyed anything to do with trains. He was an avid reader, loved NASCAR and spending time with family and friends.
He leaves behind his loving partner of 22 years Colleen of Brunswick, daughter Michelle Dillman and her husband Chris and their children April and Brian, a son John O’Connell and his wife Tammy and their children Amber, Chad, Chelsey, John, Jessica and Tala. Colleen’s daughter Beth Barter and her husband Sam and their children Brogan and Madison. His sister Kathy O’Connell and brothers Michael and Tom all of Connecticut. He is predeceased by his parents, and grandson Stephen Dillman.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the American Cancer Society.
The family would like to thank all associated with John’s care, CHANS Hospice Home Healthcare
A Celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date in early spring.
Comments are not available on this story. Read more about why we allow commenting on some stories and not on others.
We believe it's important to offer commenting on certain stories as a benefit to our readers. At its best, our comments sections can be a productive platform for readers to engage with our journalism, offer thoughts on coverage and issues, and drive conversation in a respectful, solutions-based way. It's a form of open discourse that can be useful to our community, public officials, journalists and others.
We do not enable comments on everything — exceptions include most crime stories, and coverage involving personal tragedy or sensitive issues that invite personal attacks instead of thoughtful discussion.
You can read more here about our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is also found on our FAQs.
Show less