Of Waltham, passed away peacefully Wednesday April 15, 2015 in his home surrounded by his loving family at the age of 81.

Born on March 4, 1934 in Waltham; son of the late Patrick J. O’Connell and Margaret J. (Welch) O’Connell, Tom was lifelong resident of Waltham. For years he enjoyed spending time with family in Lincoln, New Hampshire.

A graduate of Waltham Vocational High School with the Class of 1953, Tom was employed as a Welder throughout his life. He was employed by Frye Roofing on Clematis Avenue in Waltham, Arc Welding on Felton Street in Waltham and retired after 36 years of dedicated service as a Welder for the City of Waltham in 1992.

For many years he owned and operated with his late wife Ann Margaret’s Hair Salon on Lexington Street in Waltham. He took care of the shop and grounds.

Tom proudly served for nine years with the Massachusetts Army National Guard during the Korean War.

He loved to spend time family and friends especially his grandchildren. In his spare time he was an avid Boston sports fan.

Beloved husband for 56 years to the late Charlotte A. (Bardsley) O'Connell.

He is survived by his devoted & loving daughters Charlotte M. Neugbauer of Northboro and Maureen F. O'Connell-Solano of Waltham, his cherished grandchildren Daisy Antonini, Candace Lally, Michael and Thomas Espada, Harold Alvarez, Emily Solano and the late Cesar "CJ" Alvarez, and his dear brothersJoseph P. "Okie" O'Connell and Patrick "Buddy" O'Connell both of Waltham and the late William F. O'Connell. In addition he is survived by 5 adoring great grandchildren and many nieces & nephews.

Relatives & Friends are respectfully invited to attend Funeral Services from the Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Sons Memorial, 773 Moody St, WALTHAM on Wednesday morning at 9:00 a.m. with a Mass of Christian of Burial in celebration of Thomas Life at Sacred Heart Church, 311 River St, Waltham at 10:00 a.m. Interment with United States Army Military Honors will follow at Mt. Feake Cemetery. Visiting Hours will be held in the Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Sons on Tuesday from
4 – 8 p.m. Parking attendants will be on duty.

In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may be made in his memory to the Salvation Army, 33 Myrtle St., Waltham, MA 02453 or the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675