Margaret O'Connell

Obituary Margaret L. O'Connell passed away on August 8, 2016 at the age of 91. She departed this world in the manner she lived her life; with kindness, grace and determination. Margaret was born on December 9, 1924 in Everett, WA. She was the fourth of five children born to James and Mabel Hatchel. Following graduation from Everett High School she attended secretarial school. It was while working in an Everett law office where she met a young attorney named John J. O'Connell who became the love of her life. It was love at first sight and her devotion and love never wavered throughout their 51 years of marriage. They were married in Immaculate Conception Church in Everett then moved to Tacoma where they raised their six children. Margaret was a busy homemaker and the perfect partner to her husband as he pursued his career. She was John's biggest supporter throughout his life in public office and enjoyed traveling and meeting new people. A highlight for her was attending a White House State Dinner for the Prime Minister of Ireland and meeting John F. Kennedy. Margaret was proud of her Irish heritage, never losing her wonderful sense of humor and spunk. Throughout her life Margaret was active in a number of social and religious groups. She was a devout Catholic and church was an important part of her life. Margaret was an active member of Saint Patrick's Church where she participated in many activities including Eucharistic ministry, Catholic Women's Club, Altar Society and the Senior group. Margaret enjoyed entertaining, dancing, needlework, playing bridge, long walks, and never turned down the chance to go to the casino. She was an avid sports follower and continued to be knowledgeable about current events right up until the end. Margaret lived a long and full life touching many with her unconditional love, compassion, and sweet disposition. Margaret was a gracious hostess and good friend to many. Her pride and joy revolved around her family and they were her highest priority. Holiday gatherings and annual family vacations to Klipsan Beach hold warm memories for all who loved her so dearly. Margaret will long be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to countless family members and acquaintances whose lives she touched. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, her husband John, special sister Ethel, brother Jim Hatchel and sister Bernice Bunny. She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Gloria Hatchel and her children; Michael (Jeanne), Mary Bunday, Kathy (Barb Bailey), Maureen (Ed Halloway), Tricia (Brian Fransen), and Rosemary (Bob May). Her well-loved grandchildren include; Erin, David, Emily, Kevin, Christine, Shannon, Brianna, Matthew, Lauren and Rachel as well as great-grandchildren; Connor, Logan and Theo. She is also survived by many dearly loved Hatchel and Jacques nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend its heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Brookdale of Allenmore where Margaret lived the last years of her life. The caring and support shown were instrumental in making her final years happy and enjoyable. A Funeral Mass celebrating Margaret's life will be held on Friday, August 26, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick's Church, located at 1001 North J Street in Tacoma. The Rosary will be recited at Gaffney Funeral home on Thursday, August 25, 2016 at 7:00 pm. Memorial gifts may be made to Franciscan Hospice who were so helpful in Margaret's final days. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.