Page created by: Dixie O'Connell

Mark M. O'Connell MD, Born in Ithaca, NY, on February 19th 1954 to Joan Landers and Maurice O'Connell. Mark was the oldest of five siblings. He was raised in Ottawa Hills, where he attended Ottawa Hills Schools. Mark was a graduate of Phillips Exeter Academy and Williams College with a BA in English. After graduating he spent time in Chicago pursuing writing, attended further schooling at University of Chicago, and went on to graduate from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine with his MD. He started his residency in psychiatry at Harvard, and then changed disciplines to cardiology. Mark was a Board Certified Cardiologist who practiced in Boston, Philadelphia, and New Jersey for many years. He was loved by his patients and was once referred to as “a poet’s doctor.”

Mark was predeceased by his father, Maurice D. O'Connell. He is survived by his beloved children, Benjamin, Peter, and Dixie; his mother, Joan L. O'Connell; his four siblings, David (Katherine), Ann (Edward Toth), Leila, and Ellen (David Stone); his ex-wife and best friend, Ruby Laufer; and eight nieces and nephews.

Mark enjoyed skiing, sailing, tennis, and most recently, kickboxing. He was a devoted father and his children share fond memories of traveling, going to museums, and being shown the film canon. Mark was a remarkable man. He will be remembered for his amazing wit, brilliant mind, and fierce independence. He was loved by all and brought insight and laughter to everyone he met.

Mark resiliently battled Parkinson’s for over fifteen years. Through his battle he never lost the twinkle in his eye, his contagious smile, and his overall brilliance. Mark never complained when faced with adversity and was an example of valiance.
Mark passed away at his oceanside home in Highlands, New Jersey on December 5th, 2024 due to complications from Parkinson's disease. The family asks that you make a donation in Mark's honor to support Parkinson's research.