Patrick Joseph O’Connor, proud father of eight children, age 96, lifelong resident of Holyoke, MA, died on February 20, 2025 at Baystate Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.

Pat was born in Holyoke on March 7th, 1928 to Michael and Margaret (Ryan) O’Connor. He was educated at St. Jerome High School before studying business at Holyoke Business School. He served three years in the army at the end of World War II. Pat had along and distinguished career in the grocery business working at the Mohegan Market and the Ryback’s Grocery store, which he bought and renamed Pat O’Connor’s Bakery & Market. He was a member in standing at the local Knights of Columbus, having attained the level of Fourth Degree.

Pat was devoted and loving father to Patrice, Cindy, Michaline, Stephen, Carl, Jeffrey, PJ, and Valerie, who dearly miss him and the life lessons he imparted to them; among them, work hard and take care of your family. His adoring wife, Cynthia, was always there for him and was the love of his life. 

Pat was preceded in death by his first wife Dorothy Klosinski; his parents, Michael and Margaret; his sisters Mary and her husband Fran Hamel, and Christine and her husband John Weislogel; an infant brother Danny; his two sons Stephen and PJ; his sister-in-law, Coralie and David Donohue; and two brothers in law Peter Lucas, and David O’Connell. 

He is survived by his loving wife Cynthia (Lucas) O’Connor; his sister Margaret O’Connell; his children Patrice O’Connor, Cindy Dulude and her husband Jerry, Michaline O'Connor, Carl O’Connor and his wife Christine, Jeffrey O’Connor, and Valerie Kotoric and her husband Roger; nine grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Pat “Ponzie” O’Connor will always be remembered as a bright, hard-working man who always had a kind word for everyone. Nothing made him happier than helping his friends and family. His late-night snacks were legendary. As a meatcutter, he treated his family to the best cuts of meat. 

The funeral will be held on Thursday February 27 at 8:30am from the Barry J Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30am in Blessed Sacrament Church. Committal with military honor will follow at 11:00am in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Agawam. Calling hours are Wednesday February 26 from 4:00 to 7:00pm in the funeral home.