Gabriele A. O'Connell
October 19, 1946 — October 25, 2024
Gabriele A. O’Connell, aged 78, passed away with her loving husband, Michael, by her side on October 25, 2024, at their residence in Boynton Beach, Florida. Born in Germany on October 19, 1946, Gabriele immigrated to Astoria, NY, when she was eight. Assimilating to a new culture, language, and peers posed challenges that shaped her into a strong, independent spirit with exceptional artistic, cooking, gardening, fashion, and interior decorating prowess, dedicated to family and career.
For 24 years, Gabriele served as the District Treasurer and Business Manager at Delaware Academy (Delhi Central School). After retirement in 2000, she cherished adventures across the country and Canada in their motorhome and boating on Sacandaga Lake, especially with friends from Ryan’s Marina, where they docked for many years. Gabriele and Michael loved their annual family trips to Flagler Beach Campground and attending barbershop singing competitions, among other activities, always creating memories and friendships that endured a lifetime. After splitting time between their home in Perth, NY, and Florida, Gabriele and Michael settled full-time at the waterfront oasis they created in Boynton Beach.
Gabriele is survived by her husband of 59 years, Michael O’Connell, and daughters Brigitte (Shawn) McAuliffe, Cheryl (Tom) Purzycki, and Kelly (Chuck) DeWeese. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren Allyson McAuliffe, Danielle and Samantha Purzycki, Jessica Lyden, Michael Lyden, and Lauren DeWeese. She was preceded in death by her parents, Erich and Charlotte Hofmann, and in-laws, Michael and Lillian O’Connell.
A memorial service celebrating Gabriele’s life is being planned for a future date. Gabriele’s life was a testament to her enduring spirit and her memory will be forever cherished by all who knew her.
For 24 years, Gabriele served as the District Treasurer and Business Manager at Delaware Academy (Delhi Central School). After retirement in 2000, she cherished adventures across the country and Canada in their motorhome and boating on Sacandaga Lake, especially with friends from Ryan’s Marina, where they docked for many years. Gabriele and Michael loved their annual family trips to Flagler Beach Campground and attending barbershop singing competitions, among other activities, always creating memories and friendships that endured a lifetime. After splitting time between their home in Perth, NY, and Florida, Gabriele and Michael settled full-time at the waterfront oasis they created in Boynton Beach.
Gabriele is survived by her husband of 59 years, Michael O’Connell, and daughters Brigitte (Shawn) McAuliffe, Cheryl (Tom) Purzycki, and Kelly (Chuck) DeWeese. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren Allyson McAuliffe, Danielle and Samantha Purzycki, Jessica Lyden, Michael Lyden, and Lauren DeWeese. She was preceded in death by her parents, Erich and Charlotte Hofmann, and in-laws, Michael and Lillian O’Connell.
A memorial service celebrating Gabriele’s life is being planned for a future date. Gabriele’s life was a testament to her enduring spirit and her memory will be forever cherished by all who knew her.
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