Marshall Patrick O’Connor

United States Navy Machinist’s Mate First Class Marshall Patrick O’Connor passed away on July 2, 2021, as a result of service-connected cancer.

O’Connor grew up in Littleton, Colorado, surrounded by a close and loving family. He was deeply connected to his grandparents and shared a special bond with his parents, Sue and Mark O’Connor, whom he loved dearly. A devoted son, and a protective and caring older brother to his younger siblings, Logan and Gina. O’Connor had a great sense of humor and a wide circle of loyal, loving friends. He played the saxophone, and had a deep love for music. He enjoyed soccer, fishing, and bike riding. He was funny, kind, and often the smartest person in the class. He especially loved math for its clear, definitive answers.

Inspired by his maternal grandfather, Julian Alcon, who served in the Army during World War II, O’Connor enlisted in the Navy on April 22, 1999. Throughout his service, he earned numerous honors and distinctions, including the Navy Achievement Medal, Navy “E” Ribbon, a Second Good Conduct Award for the period ending April 5, 2021, the Navy Expeditionary Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. He also earned his Enlisted Submarine Warfare Breast Insignia, a testament to his dedication and skill.

After O’Connor’s service in the Navy, he continued his public service as a Nuclear Patent Examiner with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). He was hardworking and dedicated, known for his witty sense of humor and the joy he brought to those around him. He had a quiet and wise disposition that fostered true and valued friendships, and he was always there for those who needed him. A true team player, he served as a positive role model for his colleagues, often taking the time to support and guide those less experienced. He was always willing to help, explain, and share his many interests, and was widely known for his kindness and welcoming nature. A passionate soccer fan, O’Connor loved the game not just for the sport itself, but for the friendships, traditions, and memories that came with it. He was a trusted confidant and a good neighbor, someone others could rely on for both guidance and encouragement. 

O’Connor met his wife, Elizabeth, in Saratoga Springs, New York. Living just a few blocks apart, they would often cross paths while walking their dogs at the same park. Elizabeth was drawn to his wicked sense of humor and quick wit, as well as his kind and wise nature. They shared a deep love for family, friends, music, and animals, especially their dogs. Among Elizabeth’s favorite memories are the times they spent laughing together. O’Connor had an amazing laugh, both unique and contagious, and he could make her laugh like no one else.

An amazing father to his daughter, Belinda, and his son, Julian, O’Connor always looked at them with immense joy and love. Family meant everything to him, and he took great pride in being a father and a husband. At the time of his passing, Belinda was four years old and Julian was just three months old. In the months when their newborn son was in the hospital, O’Connor remained a steady and loving presence for his family, supporting his wife with strength and care, even while facing his own health challenges.

O’Connor leaves behind a legacy rooted in love and a deep commitment to serving others. He is remembered by family and friends who continue to carry his stories and humor forward, keeping his spirit alive in everyday moments. His impact is reflected in the bonds he built. Two of his friends honor him with tattoos of his face, and another with a tattoo of his fist, a lasting symbol of their connection and friendship. His presence is still felt throughout the community. Each year, the neighborhood continues to use the Halloween playlist he created for their first alley parade, a tradition that brings people together in the same joyful way he always did. Above all, his greatest legacy lives on in his children, who carry forward his love.

A deeply loved man, defined by his strength, bravery, and unwavering protectiveness. He faced his cancer with remarkable courage, never losing sight of who he was or what mattered most. He took great pride in serving his country and held a deep respect for his fellow servicemen and women. He loved his family, his friends, his work at the USPTO, and life itself, always putting others before himself and ensuring his family was cared for. Even in his passing, his presence continues to guide Elizabeth, and their children, connecting them with organizations like the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and surrounding them with support. His family honors his sacrifice by sharing his story, encouraging fellow Submariners to prioritize their health through screenings like those for colon cancer, and continuing to advocate for the military and their families. Through their involvement with TAPS and their commitment to give back, Elizabeth and his children carry O’Connor’s legacy forward, turning their grief into purpose and ensuring his life and service are never forgotten.

United States Navy Machinist’s Mate First Class Marshall Patrick O’Connor is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth, his children, Belinda and Julian, his parents, Sue and Mark, his siblings, Logan and Gina, and his sister-in-law, Becky: his in-laws, Brian and Donna Schuster, along with Elizabeth’s brother, Mike, and sister-in-law Holly; his niece, Ellie, and nephews, Hank and Sam: and a wide circle of loving family members and cherished friends who continue to honor his life and legacy.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the O’Connor family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.