John W. O’Connor, 98, of Port Charlotte, Florida passed away Thursday, March 13, 2014 at Douglas T. Jacobson State Veterans Home, Port Charlotte.

John was born on March 25, 1915 in St. Louis, Missouri to Charles B. and Laura A. O’Connor. John served in the U.S. Merchant Marines from June 20, 1941 thru December 29, 1945 and in the invasions of Italy and the Philippines. He served in every combat area during World War II. He was awarded the Mariners Medal. After the war he joined Beachem Products and was with the company for 32 years and later retiring in 1977. John was a life member of the Merchant Marines Veterans, VFW, Am Vets, DAV, American Legion, Salvation Army, National President of Merchant Marines, and the Military Heritage Museum. He was a wonderful husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend and will forever be missed by all who loved and knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Alma M. O’Connor; 2 sons, David C. O’Connor of Sebring, FL and Bruce Doras of Punta Gorda, FL and 2 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Geraldine Athey O’Connor and second wife, Elizabeth (BJ) Clarke O’Connor; 2 daughters, Joanna M. (O’Connor) Neuenhaus and Maureen L. (O’Connor) McEwans; 1 brother, Charles and 2 sisters, Lucile and Dorothy.

A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday 11:00 AM, March 19, 2014 at the First United Methodist Church of Punta Gorda, 507 W. Marion Street Punta Gorda, FL 33950. Inurnment will be held by the family at a later date.

Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers are suggested by the family to the Salvation Army, 2120 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte, FL 33980 or to the Disabled America Veterans, Chapter 82, 1232 Market Circle Unit 2B, Port Charlotte, FL 33953.

Friends may visit online at www.robersonfh.com to sign the memory book and extend condolences to the family. Arrangements are by Roberson Funeral Home & Crematory Port Charlotte Chapel.