David W. O'Connell

David W O'Connell, M.D. PhD. at age 81 after a long illness.  David was a  graduate of Lafayette High School, Canisius College and Jacobs School of Medicine. He was predeceased by his first wife Carol (nee Brown); his brother John J and former wife Michelle "Chelle" (nee de la Plante). He is survived by his devoted sister, Karen (Gerald) Getman; his loving children Jennifer (James) Damon, Kirsten Conklin, Gillian (Matthew) Bobrowski and Joseph (Amy) O'Connell; six grandchildren and one great grandchild. Dave taught science at Canisius Highschool before working in the pathology department at Roswell Park and ECMC. He worked for NYSDOCS and serving as the medical director at Wende Correctional Facility. He also worked as a Medical Examiner for Erie County and working in North Java NY at a medical clinic he helped open through Wyoming County Hospital aimed at serving patients living in rural areas. Burial will be private with no prior visitation. His children would like to thank Sarah Utkin for her care and support of their father. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Center for Elder Law and Justice.