Grace "Gracie" Anne O'Connell

Grace Anne O’Connell, 69, of Appleton, Wisconsin, entered Heaven’s gates on October 1, 2023 following complications from surgery at Marshfield Medical Center. Grace was born in Neenah on September 15, 1954 to Eugene and Blanche Van Oudenhoven.

Grace had a number of passions she kept close to her heart. She dearly loved her daughters and was crazy about her grandchildren and attended many events they were a part of. She was known for her colorful dress, and optimism toward life despite the many obstacles she had faced. She loved being the “middle sister” of seven siblings and considered many of her close friends to be extended family. Grace worked as a Respiratory Therapist for many years and loved caring for her patients.

We will all miss Grace’s smile and hearty laugh that she carried with her throughout her life.

Grace O’Connell is survived by her two daughters Shawn (Craig) Reinsch, and Erin O’Connell, grandchildren Griffin Lamers, Hudson Lamers, Wilson Reinsch, and Adia Lamers, sisters and brothers: Greg (Diane) Van Oudenhoven, Greta Johnson, Glenn (Vicki) Van Oudenhoven, Gail Guay, Dr. Gary (Susan) Van Oudenhoven, and Guy (Tracy) Van Oudenhoven, as well as many nieces, nephews and a number of very close friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers-in-law Paul Johnson and David Guay.

There will be a Memorial Mass for Grace on Friday October 6, 2023 at 10:00 AM at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 2331 E. Lourdes Drive in Appleton, with Fr. Don Zuleger officiating. There will be a gathering at the church for family and friends from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM on Friday.