Timothy Richard O’Connell

Timothy Richard O’Connell, age 73, of Woodbury, passed away unexpectedly on March 3, 2025, at his residence. Tim was born on October 4, 1951, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the son of Robert and Ella (Barnholdt) O’Connell. He attended St. Pius Parochial School in White Bear Lake before his family moved to Stillwater, where he graduated from Stillwater High School. He furthered his education at Lakewood Community College, earning his general studies.
During this time, he met and married Cynthia Carlson in 1970. Together, they welcomed three children-Troy, Scott, and Christy. Sadly, their marriage ended in divorce in 1979. Tim explored several career paths, working in real estate, managing Joseph’s Restaurant in Stillwater, and serving as a collections agent for IC Systems in the Twin Cities, where he handled accounts for many well-known individuals across the country. He was determined, well-spoken, and never backed down from a challenge. In fact, he even had heart-to-heart conversations with Ivana Trump and John Gotti-and lived to tell the tale of confronting the mobster!
When he least expected it, Tim’s heart was filled when he met his best friend and soulmate, Trudy Tussing. They married and shared life’s adventures together until her passing in 2005. Though physically separated, Trudy remained forever in Tim’s heart.
Tim enjoyed fishing, though it was a good thing he didn’t have to rely on his catches for food-he often returned home empty-handed. He loved horseback trail riding with Trudy, bowling, and going to the movies, though he had a habit of getting too comfortable and dozing off. His greatest joy, however, came from spending time with his children and grandchildren. Whether watching a Disney movie on the couch, attending their school and sporting events, or playing a competitive game of golf, Uno, Pictionary, or bocce ball, Tim was all in-especially when it came to winning! He cherished his morning newspaper, working on crossword puzzles, and trying new restaurants, though his favorite remained Ze’s Diner in the Twin Cities.
Without a doubt, the most meaningful chapter of Tim’s life began when he embraced sobriety being free from alcohol. His relationships flourished, becoming more loving and nurturing, and his faith deepened profoundly. One of the most rewarding friendships he formed was with Pastors Shawn and Jamie Morrison, who welcomed him as part of their family. Through them, Tim became actively involved in Good in the ‘Hood, an organization providing essential resources such as groceries, hot meals, holiday assistance, foot care, wellness services, youth programs, and more. His work with this initiative brought him a profound sense of fulfillment and purpose.
Tim’s faith was tested many times, particularly through the significant losses in his life; including his parents Bob and Ella, his sister Patty Carlen, his beloved wife Trudy, his son Scott, and his grandson Charlie. Yet, rather than allowing grief to consume him, he used his faith as a source of strength, inspiring those around him.
Tim’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his daughter, Christy, and son, Troy (Angie); his cherished grandchildren, AJ Harper, Payton Harper, Max O’Connell, and Jaelen Harper; his siblings, Kathryn O’Connell, Robert ‘Bob’ (Candace) O’Connell, Keri (Jim) O’Connell-Adami, and Linda (Pat) O’Donnell; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Denny Carlen, Tamara (Tom) O’Connor, Terry Tussing, Tom (Joanne) Tussing, and Jen Tussing; and his many nieces and nephews, Ryan, Tim, Trish, Erin, Abby (Bjorn), Ben (Becca), Jake, Sam, Tony, Kaelegh, Alex, Shaina, Leeta (Shep), Hannah (Trace), Jessica (Matt), Eyouel, Joni (Juan), and Hadar (Andrew). He will also be deeply missed by his extended family at Good in the ‘Hood.
A funeral service to celebrate Tim’s life will be held at 4:00 PM on Monday, March 17, at O’Connell Family Funeral Home in Hudson, with visitation one hour prior. Interment will be private. Memorials are preferred to the family’s discretion and will be used to further his passion with Good in the ‘Hood. In true Irish spirit, and to honor Tim on St. Patrick’s Day, please wear something festive and Irish. Funeral services entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson.