Harold “Spike” O’Connell, age 91, of Gladstone passed away at home on Saturday, October 16, 2021.
Spike was born February 21, 1930 in Escanaba, the son of William and Anne (Kahl) O’Connell. He graduated from the Escanaba High School in 1948. Following graduation he served his country in the United States Navy. Spike married Mary Berglund on July 2, 1955 at the St. Patrick Catholic Church in Escanaba.
Dad was proud to be the coach of the St. Patrick’s boys basketball team for numerous years and carried that love of coaching over to his granddaughter, Jennifer’s basketball team. Dad was also instrumental is starting up the Fuzz Buster games in the Gladstone School District.
Dad and mom owned small neighborhood business’; the Norway Pines Motel and Spike’s Mini Mart and still found time to enjoy their cottage on Garth Point and later in years, their small camp on the Escanaba River.
Dad was incredibly proud to be an Irishman. He looked forward each year to dressing up in his fancy Leprechaun suit to honor St. Patty’s Day; however if he had other opportunities to wear it, he did… being a hit when he wore that same suit to speak at his granddaughter’s elementary class.
Dad is survived by his children, Cindy (Bruce) Collins of Gladstone, Cheryl (Steve) Corden of Rapid River and Mike O’Connell of Escanaba; grandchildren, Taylor, Rachel, Matthew, Erica, Jen, Brandon, Trisha, Michelle, Chris, Janice, Morgan, Brett and Katie; great grandchildren, Grayson, Mason, Kai, Tinsley, Bryce, Braelyn, Isabel, Milo, William and Niko, brother, Ed O’Connell of Mission, TX, sister, Marilyn Gustafson of Escanaba and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, his parents, his son Pat and infant son Martin Charles, grandsons, Jerry and Mitch Collins, great grandson, Cameron Delveaux, brothers, Bill and George and a sister, Anne Fisher.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 20 from 1:00 PM to 2:45 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Military Honors will be presented at 2:45 PM by the Gladstone American Legion Post 71. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 PM with Fr. Jamie Ziminski officiating.
Our family would like to send out a special acknowledgement and thank you to UP Health System Home Care and Hospice. The nurses and aides were exceptional and truly brightened our father’s life during this past 13 months while also providing so much love and support to the rest of the family. And, to Northwoods Home Care and Hospice who provided respite services. Thank you for the flexibility of coverage and the loving care the aides gave to our father. You are all such beautiful, wonderful people.
Joyce Destrampe - Gladstone, MI
Spike was a terrific next door neighbor for the past 29 years. His best prank was playing the Star Spangled Banner over speakers on the 4th of July many years ago. We couldn’t imagine where the music was coming from until we saw him laughing. Both he and his late wife Mary enjoyed life to the fullest. Spike enjoyed bonfires with a drink. May he rest in peace.
Paul L. Strom - Escanaba, Mi
Heaven received a very good man. Rest in Peace Spike. Thanks for helping me. Dear God I pray for mercy for his family. Paul L. Strom
Mary Cayer - Gladstone, MI
So sorry to hear of the passing of Spike . One of my most favorite customers at Suoer Valu . So kind and friendly would always stop to see how my day was going . And then tell me he was heading to camp . Rest peacefully Spike you will be missed greatly .
Gary & Becky Lehman - Escanaba, MI
Our sincere condolences to Spike’s entire family and friends. He’s more than likely telling jokes and cracking up the all the Angels by now! Rest in Peace my friend!
Joseph A Muehlhaus - Escanaba, MI
Spike !
You were the best basketball coach I ever had! You put St. Patrick’s school on the map! Thank you for all your time and passion for the game! Because of your great coaching and knowledge of the game, it became my first love! The memories you made will last forever because of your heart for the game! You are in my thoughts and prayers! God bless and keep you!
Love, Joe Muehlhaus
Dan DeMay family - Gladstone, MI
Cheryl, Cindy and family. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May you find peace and comfort in memories.
Bill Peltin - Valley Center , Ca
Spike was my first basketball coach at St. Patrick’s. In 1964 we won the league championship due to his leadership and showing us how the game should be played. A great coach and man.