Vicki Barthelemy O'Connell

O'Connell Vicki Barthelemy O'Connell, 54, of Plano, TX, died on 2/21/03, as a result of an automobile accident in Austin, TX. Vicki was born on September 17, 1948 in Bemidji, MN to Felix and Marie Barthelemy. She graduated from Bemidji High School in 1966, and was a Ô68 grad of Alexandria Technical College. She married the love of her life, William "Bill"O'Connell on September 27, 1969 in Sauk Rapids, MN. A wonderful wife, loving mother, caring grandmother and a friend to all, she graced the lives of all she knew with her enthusiasm and zest for life. She gave generously to those she knew and loved. Vicki was a devoted member of Grace Community Church in Plano, TX. She was a co-director of the Angel Tree ministry, a program that is dedicated to helping children with parents in prison. She was also currently on the Board of Directors at Heartlight Ministries of Hallsville, TX, a Christian residential treatment facility for teenagers in crisis. In addition, Vicki previously served on the Plano Special Olympics Board. It was her unending love of life, her Lord, and people that drew so many to her, touching their hearts by giving of herself so simply and freely. She is survived by her husband of 33 years; daughters, Cari Ann Kuter (Tony)of Bemidji, MN and Margaret Marie "Meggy" O'Connell of Houston, TX; son, William D. "Buddy,"and grandson, William A. "Andy"O'Connell of Anoka, MN; sisters, Nanette Lien (Herb) of Blackduck, MN, Marie Fowler (Dave) of Marshall, MO; and brothers, Pete and Bill (Mary) Barthelemy of Bemidji, MN. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Marie and Felix Barthelemy, and her sister, Elizabeth Christiansen. Visitation will be Saturday, March 1st from 6-8 PM at the Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 N. Central Expressway, Allen, TX. The service will be Sunday, March 2nd, 3 PM at Grace Community Church, Plano, TX. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Heartlight Ministries, PO box 286, Hallsville, TX 75650.

Published on February 26, 2003