Shawn P. O'Connell

Shawn Patrick O'Connell was born on February 13, 1968 in Holyoke, Massachusetts to David O'Connell and Helen (Scala) O'Connell. He was the 6th of 7 children who grew up in Chicopee. As a young adult he moved to California where he lived the remainder of his life. He served as a police officer in Rialto, CA from 1996 - 2004. In 2001, he was promoted to a Sergeant. In 2004, Shawn retired from the Rialto PD after being injured in an accident that left him paralyzed. His paralysis, however, did not deter his drive to serve the community. In 2012 he was elected to Rialto's City Council (population 100,000). His tireless work would become a voice for change and a tremendously positive impact for the City of Rialto. On June 5, 2016, Shawn passed away. He was predeceased by his father David, Mother Helen, and twin Scott. He is survived by his brother David O'Connell of MA; sisters Laurie O'Connell of DE; Cindy LaFortune, her husband Mark of ND and their 3 children (Christina, Ashley & Mark); Debi O'Connell of CA and her 2 children (Bryan & Danielle); & Kelly O'Connell and her wife Kathleen Bantley of MA. A funeral service for Shawn was held in Rialto, CA. He will be buried with his brother Scott at the conveniences of the family. Memorial contributions in Shawn's memory can be made to the Webster Town Hall; Division of Animal Control, 350 Main Street Webster, MA 01570.