Michael Joseph O’Connor

Michael Joseph O’Connor was born on December 25, 1954, at Mercy Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and passed away surrounded by loved ones on Monday, May 18, 2026, at the Des Moines VA Hospital.

Mike grew up on the east side of Des Moines, where he spent most of his life. He was a big Harley Davidson enthusiast. At age 17, he joined the United States Marine Corps and proudly served his country. After being honorably discharged, Mike worked as an ironworker at Eagle Iron Works in Des Moines for 31 years and was a proud union member and served as a union steward.

In 1993, Mike met his wife, Donell, and the two shared 31 happy years of marriage. Mike was a devoted husband and proud father to four children. Later in life, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mike loved traveling and discovering new places, especially when it meant spending time with his family. He enjoyed taking his children and grandchildren to different states each year, creating traditions and memories that would last a lifetime. One especially memorable adventure was a family trip to Florida with all of his children, their spouses, and grandchildren — complete with unforgettable moments and a drive without air conditioning that became part of family lore. More recently, Mike enjoyed a train trip to Colorado with family, one of his favorite places to visit.

Mike was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He cared deeply about democracy and believed strongly that everyone who is able should exercise their right to vote.

Outside of watching the news, Mike’s favorite pastime was playing pool. He loved spending time with family and friends, making people laugh, and sharing jokes. When Mike first met Donell, he caught her attention with a wink and a joke. Over the years, that wink became his way of reassuring her whenever she needed comfort. Mike was telling jokes and winking until his very last day.

Mike is survived by his wife, Donell O’Connor; his children, Jessica Daniels, Angela O’Connor, Deaven (Cassandra) O’Connor, and Danielle (Trysten) Thomas; grandchildren, Julie Daniels, Aaron Pollard, Daphne Perez, Michael Mock III, and Rhiannon Gall; great-grandchildren, Arya Richards and Milani Franklin; and siblings, Gerald O’Connor, John Anderson, Beryl O’Connor, Connie O’Connor, and Megan O’Connor.

He was preceded in death by his father, Beryl O’Connor; mother, Wanda Anderson; siblings, Christine Fleming, Charlotte Harrison, and Donald Anderson; and great-granddaughter, Amara Richards.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the VA Hospital for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Mike during his time in their care. We are forever grateful for the comfort, dignity, and kindness provided to him and our family.

Service information is pending.