John Gerald O’Connor

John Gerald O’Connor passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at Hope West Care Center on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.

John was born in McKeesport, PA, and grew up in Gary, IN. He spent his early career at US Steel, where he was recognized for his work ethic and personable demeanor. He was promoted into management as the youngest member of the leadership team.

After moving to Grand Junction in 1981, he worked in construction as a project manager and estimator. An entrepreneur at heart, he started multiple businesses. John was proud to have been involved in the community efforts to build the new Palisade High School.

John loved his family and worked hard all his life to provide for them. He was kind and generous, thinking of others before himself. When he earned his first paycheck as a teenager, he used the money to buy his siblings gifts and got nothing for himself. He was easy to talk to and possessed a witty sense of humor. He had a likable personality and treated others with respect regardless of who they were or where they came from.

John is survived by his wife Alice of 52 years, sister Kerry, sons John (Cami), Christopher (Jona), Dennis (Heather), daughter Jerri Gallina (John), eight grandchildren John, Carli, Jake, Jillian, Colin, Riely, Kylie, Rory, and great-grandson Jude.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jeremiah and Dorothy, brother Dennis, and sisters Grace and Cathy.

The family wishes to express our utmost gratitude to the Hope West Hospice staff for their kind, compassionate care of John. A special thank you to his home health care team, Ricki and Randy, as well as for Mike’s friendship.

There are no services planned. The family requests that donations be made to Hope West in his memory.