Daniel J. O'Connell

Daniel J. O’Connell, 64, of Union Springs, New York, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Dan was born August 18, 1961, in Schenectady, New York, to his late mother Josie Santillo, and was later adopted by his late adoptive parents, Daniel and Mary O’Connell of Auburn, New York, where he grew up to make all the family, friends, and memories he has now.

After graduating from Union Springs Central High School in 1979, Daniel enlisted in the Marines, serving 4 years. There he worked as an Electronics Engineer. He not only served our country, but he learned to be stubborn, disciplined, and resilient in the Marine Corps.

Following his service, Daniel worked at various H.V.A.C. and electrical engineering jobs including McQuay, PASCO, and Upstate Temperature Control. Daniel was notorious at every job he had for his impeccable ability to troubleshoot any situation, even from over the phone. During his disability and early retirement, he worked part-time at Lowe’s, The Home Depot, and Daldrop SBB until officially retiring in 2021.

Daniel married the love of his life, Rebecca Kneaskern, in 2005. Together they raised 5 children. Every summer during the twins' birthday in July, they’d set out for a camping trip for the whole family. Daniel adored fishing most of all during those trips. He’d be up sitting next to his fishing pole before the sun was out and standing next to the pole long after the sun was set. He taught all the kids his admiration for fishing, even if they weren’t as enthused as he was. He and his wife would take occasional trips to old war zones, including Gettysburg, as they were both history buffs, and they both were into Geocaching for the thrill.

Outside of work, Daniel loved being outdoors, even if it meant sitting on the porch and watching the sky. Something about the peace and quiet of nature, the sound of birds, or the sound of the rain just made him relaxed. He could spend hours telling his kids about his hunting stories growing up, the golf stories, and stories of his accomplishments. Daniel had an incredible sense of humor that had the ability to get you laughing regardless of if you were in a bad mood. He was an incredibly smart man who knew a lot and cared a lot. He could tell you how to wire a house or even build it. He gave everything for his kids until he couldn’t anymore; then his kids stepped in to take care of him to return the favor.

Daniel is survived by his wife of 21 years, Rebecca; his children, Dwayne Wilson, Sarah (Patrick) Sweeting, Daniel (Sarah) O’Connell, Andrew O’Connell, Andrea O’Connell; his grandchildren, Sawyer, Gabriella, Ava, Dominic, Autumn, Aaron, Winter, August, Pepper; his nieces, Erin O’Connell, Brianna O’Connell; his nephew, D’Anthony Baim; his siblings, Matt Baim, Christine Brown, and Colleen (Dave) Leontovich. He was preceded in death by his parent Josie and adoptive parents Daniel and Mary.

Daniel will be remembered for being more than a husband, a friend, a Marine, or being a father to his kids. He will be remembered for his unwavering strength, his humor, and the love he gave so freely. His presence made the world brighter, and his absence will be felt every day.

Semper Fi.

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