Obituary of Robert David O'Connell

Robert David O’Connell, 70, of Rochester, NY passed away on May 7th, 2016. Born into an Irish family with a love for the game of golf, Bob (the lawyer) O’Connell was full of charisma, athleticism, and thirst for education. Bob graduated from Rochester’s West High School in 1963, before heading to UCLA to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, and then attended Harvard University Law School on full scholarship; where he earned a Judicial Doctorate and practiced law in New York State and California for many years. Bob had a brilliant mind and like many brilliant minds was quite eccentric, which led to some of his greatest stories. Bob has always had a knack for finding entrepreneurial opportunities; while at Harvard University, he took over a small newspaper/candy stand from a graduating senior, which he turned it into a business, creating a physical store in the student commons. The store was equipped with dry cleaning services and a myriad of other products catered to student needs. The store was so successful, that the Harvard Coop in town bought him out to end the rivalry building between them. Bob was a bit of a rogue legend at Harvard, taking a year off to delve into capitalism and take control of his circumstances, while still looking toward the future. Bob was constantly in a state of motion. It’s been said many times that his life would be the good basis for a movie as he fit so much into the years he had. Bob has always stunned his friend and family with his multifaceted approach to life, creating a plethora of memories in the minds of his friends and family. To say that he was one of a kind would be an understatement. Robert D. O’Connell is predeceased by his parents, (William) Dempsey and (Elizabeth) Betty O'Connell along with infant brother, Terrance O’Connell. He is survived by: Children: Colin O'Connell, Tracy O'Connell, Ceara O'Connell (Michael A.), Elizabeth O'Connell-DiMartino (Gianpaolo D.), Erica Stockwell, and Brandon O'Connell Grandchildren: Caleb O’Connell, Shayla, Augusta, and Jaqueline O'Connell, Gianni, Leo, and Maya O'Connell-DiMartino, Eleanor Angelucci, and Great Grandson Tristan O’Connell Siblings: William G. O'Connell, Jr., Kathleen C. Yaeger (John Cavin), Kevin C. O'Connell, Esq. (Laura S.), Nancy E. O'Connell-Amo (Richard Amo) In addition: 12 nieces and nephews, 4 great nieces and nephews, and many friends and associates A Casual Memorial Service to be held on: THURSDAY May 12th, at 3:30 P.M. In the Riverbend Pavilion of Genesee Valley Park, Moore Rd. Rochester, NY