Southbury. Christine Elise O’Connell, 68, died on Saturday, September 8, 2018 at Waterbury Hospital after a long illness. Born in New Haven on December 12, 1949, she was a daughter of the late John and Marietta (Lanthier) O’Connell. Christine came to live at the Southbury Training School in November, 1954.
Ms. O’Connell was an expressive woman who valued her family and friends. Though presented with many challenges in her life, she maintained a positive spirit and motivation. Over the years, Christine enjoyed participation in day programs which provided her with leisure, recreation, work skills, socialization, and individualized and group activities. For years Christine was involved in the production and delivery of dog biscuits, made at STS. She enjoyed music, sing-a-longs, movies, the Gatehouse concerts, and trips to parks. Christine especially loved dogs, and her collection of dolls. Christine’s family would like to thank the staff at Southbury Training School for the excellent care they gave to her over the years.
Christine is survived by her brothers and sisters: Martin B. O’Connell (Pia) of Norwalk, Jeanne M. O’Connell (Edward) of Niantic, Barbara L. Kane (Kevin) of Killingworth, Gregory L. O’Connell (Terry) of Madison, Denise O. Lipkvich (Richard Alan) of Branford, and Constance O’Connell (Thomas Curtin) of New Mexico; and nieces and nephews: Caralina O’Connell, Stephanie O’Connell, Monique O’Connell, Virginia O’Connell, Justin Kane, Bridgette Kane Kunst, Martin-Scott Kane, Stephen Kane, Mark O’Connell, David O’Connell, Keith Lipkvich, Erica L. McNamara, and Alexandra Curtin. She will be missed by her family, friends, and staff who have worked with her over the years.
Family and Friends may visit Keenan Funeral Home, 330 Notch Hill Road, North Branford Tuesday, September 11, 2018 9:30 am -10:30 am. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St. Margaret Church, 24 Academy Street, Madison at 11:00 am. Burial to follow at St. Agnes Cemetery, Branford. Memorial contributions in Christine’s name may be made to the STS Home & School Association, P.O. Box 872, Southbury, CT 06488-0901.
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