Roll Call Tribute

Richard Lane O'Connor, Col. USAF (Ret) 

January 26, 1932 - June 8, 2024 

Col. Richard Lane O'Connor, a cherished family man and decorated veteran, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2024, in Eagle Lake, Texas. Born on January 26, 1932, in Galveston, Texas, Richard's life was marked by his unwavering spirit of generosity, selflessness, and courage.

He was a proud graduate of Texas A&M University, where he honed the leadership skills that would later define his career. Following his education, he answered the call to serve his country as a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force. His valor and commitment during his military tenure earned him the rank of Colonel, and he was widely respected by his peers for his bravery and tactical acumen, especially as a member of the Wild Weasels during his tour of duty in Vietnam.

After retiring from active duty, Col. O'Connor and his wife moved to the Air Force Village in San Antonio, where he was active in the community. He was a family man through and through, deeply devoted to his late wife Barbara, with whom he shared a love that was a beacon of strength and joy to their children, Tracy, Stephen, Maureen, and Allison. The legacy of his love and guidance blossomed further in the lives of his grandchildren, Sr. Thomas Aquinas, Sr. Mary Jacinta, Clare, Kieran Betlewski, Loren Ganger, Samuel and Maksut O'Connor, Faron Stout, Nicolai Lutz, Marie, and Anne Morgenthaler, as well as his great-grandchildren, Neve and Alize Ganger, Lucas Tumlinson, and Chanel McNally.

Those who knew Richard O'Connor will remember him for his immense generosity. He never hesitated to extend a helping hand to those in need, whether through mentorship, friendship, or community service. His selfless nature was a beacon of hope and support, and his presence alone was a source of comfort to many.

In a final salute to a life of extraordinary service and love, a funeral Mass will be said for him at St. Vincent de Paul Church in San Antonio on June 27th at 10:30 am, with burial at Ft. Sam Houston following.