Cecilia G. O'Connell

Cecilia "Ceil" O’Connell, 95, of Green Bay passed away peacefully at Odd Fellow Nursing home on November 28th, 2024. She was born on March 3, 1929 to Florence (VanLorynen) and Peter Dernbach. Ceil’s mother passed away shortly after Ceil was born, and her Aunt Mary and Uncle John Dernbach raised her, with Ceil calling them Mama and Papa. Ceil graduated from Green Bay East High School in 1948. She married Robert (Bud) O’Connell in December of that year. Years later after divorcing, Ceil met Bob Gonnering and they spent 35 years traveling and enjoying life together. Most of her work-life was at St. Vincent Hospital, finishing out her career in the Patient Account Department. Ceil was a member of the Ladies Altar Society, Red Hat Society, and Moose Lodge.A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Ceil lived a life filled with love, kindness, and dedication to others. Ceil was the heart of her family, always ready to bring everyone together with her famous booyah and chili (and a bowl of ice cream or homemade chocolate chip cookies for dessert!). Her home was a warm and welcoming gathering place where laughter and joy flowed freely. You could always count on a game being played at the kitchen table and a pot of coffee ready and warm. She had a special talent for making everyone feel cared for, and she truly enjoyed the company of others. She was known for her selflessness and willingness to help anyone in need. 

A lover of life’s simple joys, Ceil was rarely without a disposable camera in hand, capturing the action and memories unfolding around her. Keeping people supplied with socks, winter hats, and even baptismal gowns, Ceil really loved knitting. She enjoyed collecting beautiful angels, which adorned her home as a reflection of her faith and the peace they brought her. Her dedication to her church and unwavering belief in God were central to her life, guiding her actions and inspiring those around. Ceil will be missed by her children, Paul (Pam), Judy DuBois, and Mark, grandchildren, Jody (Chris) Stangler, Corey (Kelly), Judd (Nichole), Kelley (Scott) Selissen, and Joe (Sara) DuBois, and great grandchildren, Chloe, Calvin, Alana, Lydia, Jack, Blake, Kendall, Ellie, Ava, Beckett, Nellie, Sosi, and Deacon, Bob Gonnering’s family, cousin Bob Balza, and many other loving relatives. 

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Mary O’Connell and her longtime partner, Bob Gonnering.

Gathering of remembrance will be held at Saints Peter and Paul Church 710 N. Baird Street on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 10am until the time of the Mass. Memorial Mass 11am Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the church with Father Jose Lopez officiating. Burial in Allouez Catholic Cemetery. 

Ceil’s family extends a special thank you to Lisa from Odd Fellows and Traci from St. Croix Hospice who took wonderful care of our mother.