Joe O’Connor was born Jan. 11, 1934 in New York to Jim and Betty O’Connor, their only child. He grew up in upstate New York. He was a PFC in the Army, honorably discharged to continue his education. He graduated from University of Colorado, in Boulder with a PhD in Geology, going on to work with the US Geological Survey for many years, including a stint testing space suits in the Arizona desert for NASA! He continued his education at the University of California, Berkeley by getting a Doctor of Jurisprudence. He then combined his degrees by working for the US Office of Surface Mining doing environmental law. 

He was married to Patricia Ann Cavanagh O’Connor, and to that union was born Nancy Kathleen O’Connor (Carpentier) and Michael Patrick O’Connor. They lived in Boulder, Colo., Flagstaff, Ariz., and Pleasant Hill, Calif. He moved to Berkeley while getting his law degree. He also spent many years living near Washington DC in rural Virginia to be able to contribute to environmental laws. 

Joe was an accomplished watercolor artist and published author. He was also an avid fly fisherman and squash player (boasting that he played against the Governor of Colorado).  Joe spent his last 30 years again living in the mountains of Colorado, his true home. 

Joe passed away on Dec. 24, 2025 after listening to his daughter’s voice and prayers. He was predeceased by his son, Michael and ex-wife, Pat. He is survived by his daughter, Nancy Carpentier and son-in-law, Dan Carpentier, as well as grandchildren Connor, Caleb, and Christianna Carpentier and six great-grandchildren as well as many friends throughout this great country. He is missed. Private family services have been held. Contributions in his memory may be made to Harney County Hospice.