Obituary of Joan (Behm) O'Connor

Joan (Behm) O’Connor 87 of Liverpool (formerly of The Valley) passed peacefully in the comfort of her home. She was predeceased by her high school sweetheart, her husband of 55 years, Paul J O’Connor, Jr. in 2005. They loved to spend time camping at Riverforest Park in Weedsport and Brennan’s Bay, Sandy Pond; also, son-in-law Tony Garafolo; two sisters: Mary Ann Sofinski and Jackie Birchler.

Her greatest gift was the love for her family, which all began because two people fell in love. Her memory will be cherished for generations to come.

She is survived by her seven children: Patty Gersbacher of Baldwinsville, Paul (Diane) O’Connor of Timmonsville, SC, Sue (John) Besten of East Syracuse, Kathy Durkin (Larry Rougeau) of Clay, Debbie Garafolo of Onondaga Hill, Dan (Juanita) O’Connor of Camillus and Joanie (John) Mahar of Onondaga Hill; one brother-in-law Patrick (Ione) O’Connor of Syracuse; 21 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild; several nieces and nephews.

Calling Hours will be Thursday from 4PM to 7PM at Ballweg & Lunsford Funeral Home, 4612 S. Salina St., Syracuse, NY 13205.  Funeral Services will be Friday, 11AM at Our Lady of Hope,  4845 S Salina St, Syracuse, NY 13205.  Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Dewitt, NY.