James P. O'Connell

James Patrick O’Connell (Liam) of Toledo, Ohio went to be with God on Saturday, February 20, 2021. James was born in Toledo, Ohio on October 3, 1985. He was the son of Kevin and Debra O’Connell. James was a graduate of Saint Francis de Sales High School, ‘04. He was first team all state all four years and a State Doubles champion tennis player in 2003 with his cousin Mike O’Connell. He went on to play Division 1 tennis at University of Dayton, earning all Atlantic 10 honors in 2006, 07, and 08. James was a faithful Cleveland Browns fan. Needless to say he loved watching their playoff run this year. As a world traveler, he enjoyed trips to France, Ireland, Germany, England, Thailand, Bali, Hawaii, and Italy, yet his favorite destination remained Santorini, Greece. He loved to see beautiful new places and experience different cultures. James developed a successful business career with Cintas, Stericycle and Tidel. His career path took him to reside in many cities including Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Charlotte, Nashville and Texas where he made many lifelong friends. James will always be remembered as a caring, loyal, competitive, son, brother, grandson, uncle, cousin, godfather and friend. James was a fun loving uncle who enjoyed making special memories with nieces and nephews. He specialized in outdoing parents and grandparents with gifts at Christmastime. He touched so many lives in his short time here on earth. Although we are devastated to not have him here with us, we find solace that he has finally found peace. His spirit will live on through all his family and friends. James is preceded in death by his paternal grandfather Bob O’Connell, and his maternal grandparents Bob and Peg Wheeler. James leaves behind his dear paternal grandmother, Jean O’Connell and loving parents, Kevin and Deb; brother Kevin O’Connell (Molly) and sister Kelly Rickey (Jason). His nieces and nephews, Charlie, Rory, Maggie O’Connell, Emma, Nora, Jack and Claire Rickey. His numerous aunts, uncles and cousins and his beloved dog Finn. A Memorial Mass will be held by James’ long time tennis friend and fellow Xavier competitor, Father Jeremy Miller along with Fr. Ronald Olszewski and Fr. James Bacik on Saturday, February 27th at 10:00 am at Corpus Christi University Parish, masks are required. Due to the COVID Pandemic restrictions and the number of guests who are unable to attend in person, or who feel more comfortable celebrating his life virtually, the service will be livestreamed via Live from Corpus Christi — Corpus Christi University Parish (ccup.org). A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 16, 2021 from 12-2:00 pm at the Stables in Whitehouse, 11781 Obee Road Whitehouse, OH 43571. Those wishing to give a tribute in James’ memory are asked to consider St. Francis de Sales High School, 2323 W. Bancroft St., Toledo, OH 43607 (https://www.sfsknights.org/memorial) Arrangements by Walker Funeral Home and condolences may be shared with the family at walkerfuneralhomes.com