Dorothy A. ‘Dottie’ O’Connell

Resided in Escanaba, MI
Died January 24, 2022

Dorothy A. “Dottie” O’Connell, 94, of Escanaba, passed away on January 24, 2022 at Bishop Noa Home, she resided at West Highland until June of 2021. Dottie was born on September 13, 1927 in Oconto, WI to Florence (Trepanier) and George LaChapelle.

She moved with her family to Escanaba and graduated from St. Joe’s High School. In November of 1949 She married George O’Connell and they began their life and later their business together. Dottie raised their three children and did bookkeeping for their Phillips 66 gas station and fuel oil business.

George and Dottie enjoyed many years at the camp they built together on Stella Lake, snowmobiling, playing music and riding on the pontoon. Dottie had a positive, fun, can-do attitude that carried her through all of life’s twists and turns including losing George in 1980.
Her life always had music in it and most often she was part of making it. She started in a family band as a child, played drums in St. Joe’s high school band, played keyboard or guitar at senior centers and nursing homes throughout Upper Michigan, Joel’s and other area restaurants, for Remnants Barbershop Chorus intermissions, the Tri-County Volunteer Fire Department Flea Market, and for over 15 years every Friday and Saturday Night at the Firekeepers Restaurant. She could never read a note of music, but if you hummed the tune or gave her a recording she would be playing and singing it in no time. She passed her musical genes on to her children and grandchildren and she was very active in their lives going to plays, concerts and events they were involved in.

Dottie will be missed by her family. Son Dennis (Pat) O’Connell, Escanaba, MI and their son Brent (Jeana) O’Connell. Daughter Debbie (Ned Marks) Hiler, Sherwood, WI and her children Stacie (Bob) Stanton, Deer Park, IL (great-granddaughters Lucy and Maria,) Stephen (Jackie) Shepich of Iron River, MI (great-grandsons Tyler (Jenna) and Eric (Emily) Stafford,) Scott (Shelby) Shepich, Gwinn, MI (great-grandson Ethan.) Daughter Peggy (Raymond Sheldon) O’Connell, Escanaba, MI and her children Molly (Matt) Bauman, Mounds View, MN (great-grandson Reece,) Tim (Alyssa Martin) Schumann, Marquette, MI and Bridget Schumann, Minneapolis, MN. Brother Thomas (Lynn) LaChapelle, Sister-in-Law Barbara LaChapelle, Brother-in-law Ed O’Connell, Sister-in-Law Marilyn Gustafson and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, siblings Betty Beveridge and Geroge (Sheridan) LaChapelle and brothers and sisters-in-law.
Dottie’s family would like to extend an extra special thank you to Michelle Grenier and Duane Carlson at West Highland for their care and friendship, the staff who delivered Meals on Wheels, the Data Bus Drivers who made sure Dottie got to her Gigs and Hair Appointments. The incredible, caring and dedicated staff at Bishop Noa Home for making her feel cared for and valued until her last breath.

Skradski Funeral Home in Escanaba is assisting the family. A musical memorial service will be held this summer to celebrate Dottie when family and friends are able to travel and gather without the burden of covid worries.

19 Tributes for “Dorothy A. ‘Dottie’ O’Connell”

    I’m so sorry to hear of Dottie’s passing. What a truly wonderful lady. I was one of the DATA drivers that had the pleasure of transporting Dottie to her gigs. She was always such a bright spot in my day. She will be missed.

    A beautiful soul has gained her wings and is now making music for all those that past ahead of her! Rest in Peace Dottie!!!

    Just wanted to send a tribute to my”second mom” Dottie, as Deb and myself were attached at the hip during our teen years. I have many wonderful memories of my times at the O’Connell camp and and enjoying her music then and later. A life well lived and loved by many.

    The joy she brought to those lucky enough to enjoy her talent and charm every weekend in Firekeepers was wonderful to see! Her smile and zest for life were contagious always!

    Dottie was a great woman. She was always fun and I loved to listen to her music. Her smile always made you smile! She will be missed my thoughts and prayers are with you. Janet Lindstrom.

    When I heard of Aunt Dotties passing the memories started to flow. All the music our families played when we were all together will never leave my heart.

    Pete and I would like to extend our sympathy to the O’Connell Family. Precious memories you all must share of your mother.

    All of our sympathy to Dotties Family, Heaven will be jumping, Dottie was so good to our TRICOUNTY FIREDEPARTMENT, she played for free for decades, Enjoyed her music at our place too. Love, Jim and Sue Raredon

    Dottie was a great friend for many years. She was always a positive, happy, generous person. I think the Angels in heaven are harmonizing and heaven is an even happier place…will miss you, Dottie Till we meet again…..

    I am so sorry to hear about Dotty. Dotty was such a ray of sunshine, no matter what kind of day you were having she would brighten it. When she’d come to visit my mom (Terry) they would reminisce and laugh about the crazy things they did growing up together. When Dotty would come to the Log Cabin Supper Club she would end up at the piano and within a few min. everyone would be laughing and singing. I want to think that all the girls are now together, singing, laughing and having a wonderful time and that this sweet lady is spreading her happiness all over heaven. Rest in peace my dear dear friend.

    Dottie was one of the nicest and most talented individuals I ever met. She was a good friend of mother’s at WH, and the two could often be found entertaining on the piano. My condolences go out to her family and friends.

    Dennis, Debbie, Peggy and families – I’m so sorry to hear about your mom. She was one-of-a-kind and left her mark on not only her kids, but people all over this area, including the nursing homes, Lake Stella, and more. May she rest in peace and may you all find peace in the coming days.

    Dottie was a special lady with tremendous gifts. Always with a smile & good word….she just made your day better. Condolences to the family. She will be missed.

    That Dottie…left a smile wherever she went. Dennis, Pat and family, I send my condolence, love and prayers.

    We’re so very sorry to learn of Dottie’s passing. She was an upbeat, can do unique woman. Always friendly and generous with her friendship and talent. She will be missed.

    Dennis and Pat… my condolences on the loss of your mother (Dennis). I remember her well, having pizza at your home when we were kids, and your mother (Dottie) taught me “Moon River” on the guitar. I still love playing that song after all these years. You are in my thoughts and prayers in your loss, as I know what losing a mother is like. Take care and appreciate her life.
    Your old friend, Jim Joque

    Dennis and Pat – my condolences to you. I didn’t know your mom too well, but back when I used to go to Stella Lake with Cheryl Chernick, she and I would visit and I remember your mom as such a happy person, always smiling. What a wonderful legacy she left for you and your sisters. She will certainly be missed. My sympathy to you all.

    I just seen the obituary for Dottie. I’m sorry to hear she passed she was such a nice lady and I looked forward to seeing her when she played the piano in fire keepers

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