Long term resident James "Jim" O'Connor died March 7 ^th , 2020 surrounded by his family at the age of 91. Preceded in death was his wife of 51 years, Mary Cunningham of Kansas City, KS. He is survived by his four children and spouses, Patrick and Vicky, Michael and Janie, Karen and Mike, Daniel and Pati, seven grandchildren, Nikki and John, Rachel, Brenna and Carly, Colton, and Shealyn, 3 great- grandchildren, Riley, Wyatt and River.

Born in Waterloo, IA in 1929, and growing up on the farm, he joined the Navy in 1949 and served as a radio operator on a Tug boat and Minesweeper at Inchon Bay at the beginning of the Korean War.

Married in 1953 to the love of his life they settled in Southern California to raise their four children after traveling from California to Texas to Massachusetts then back to Canoga Park, CA in 1960. Jim spent many years in the booming semi-conductor industry until he changed professions to become a self-employed electrical contractor. He was active in the church and volunteering in the community wherever he lived.

His passion for playing cards started in the Navy, whether picking up a game of cribbage or hearts and later learning to play bridge with his church friends in the 60's and throughout his life. This joy continued up until only a week ago with his friends at the Steamboat Springs Community Center.

Jim and Mary retired in 1990 to Las Vegas NV, where their house became a central meeting center for family and friends from all over the United States. In 2004, after the passing of his wife, Jim moved to Steamboat to be near his three children.

In later years, Jim could be seen daily riding on the bus into town and to the Community Center wearing his beanie and pushing his walker. He would walk daily from his condo to the City Market and Walmart just to be outside and to be around people. He had a quick wit, fiery independent nature, unwavering love to talk and to someday complete his journey to be with the Lord.

Without a doubt his love for this community is only matched by your love to care for him, listen to his jokes, give him rides or visit with him in this place he called home.

A Funeral Mass will be held March 14, 2020 at Holy Name Catholic Church at 11:00 AM.  There will be a visitation held prior to the service from 10 to 10:30 AM with a Rosary starting at 10:30 AM at the church.