This weekend, we honored my dad’s life, and I am so grateful for everyone who showed up, despite the gloomy forecast. It was the celebration I had hoped for, filled with smiles and shared memories of my dad. Thank you to everyone who was there to honor him and reminisce about the man he was.
Paul O’Connor, or OC as many knew him, made a mark on so many people. He was a wild outdoorsman, but at his core, he had a soft and kind heart, always there to lend a hand. Whether it was sharing food with visitors at his cabin or planning his next big adventure, he was always up for something grand. I hope his current journey is just as amazing.
I had asked people to write memories or goodbye letters, and I am thankful to those who took the time to share. I know the weather didn’t make it easy to sit down and write, but for anyone who still wants to share stories or memories, please reach out to me. I’d love to hear them over a cup of coffee. One day, I hope to write a book about my dad, about our life, and about my journey through this time. Your stories and memories will be an important part of that.
I also want to express my deepest gratitude to my mom and stepdad, who made the long trip from Seward despite my mom’s recent knee surgery. Your love and support during this strange and painful time have meant the world to me. I am also incredibly thankful to my sister from another mister, Madalyn Grahn, who traveled from Seldovia with her beautiful family to be there. Your presence truly warmed my heart and reminded me that love knows no boundaries.
A special thank you to Jeff Lyle, a longtime family friend who helped with getting supplies to Dad’s favorite spot. He shared this memory: "My favorite OC memory is when he almost tipped me in the canoe at your wedding. You will be missed by so many, Paul!" It’s little stories like these that remind me of the humor and joy Dad brought into people's lives.
David and Peggy Hicks, from N2 Aviation, also shared their memory: "We are glad to have gotten to know you and your dad from all the years of flying you all back and forth from Heart Lake." Heart Lake was my dad's sanctuary, and I’m warmed by the thought of all the people who shared that space with him. Dad was so proud of the home he built there, log by log. He lived in tune with nature, creating beauty from the elements around him, a gift that I, too, cherish every day.
One note that touched me deeply came from my sister from another mister (and mother), Jessica Rumbold. She wrote: "I am so thankful to have met your dad and to see firsthand where you got so many of your fun, quirky, creative, and wild qualities... Walking into your dad’s cabin – warm and cozy, with furs everywhere and wild little pieces of art – made me laugh and smile in both amusement and awe. I thought, ‘Ah, I understand Sierra.'... Thank GOD for him creating one of our favorite people in the world! He did right by you!" It means the world to me to see my dad reflected in myself, and I will always carry that with me.
Carol shared a memory that touched my heart as well: "There was a time that your dad showed up at my house, out of the blue, with a load of groceries. He didn’t stay to visit, but the kindness and unexpected gesture meant so much to me. He was a giving man, and I’m thankful to have known him." Her words remind me of the many ways Dad quietly gave to those around him, always doing what he could to help, even without sticking around for acknowledgment.
A heartfelt thank you also goes to Tim, my dad's dear friend who was always there for him through thick and thin. Tim’s dedication and loyalty were a constant in Dad's life, and I will forever be grateful to him for his friendship and the role he played in Dad's later years. You were there when he needed you the most, Tim, and your support did not go unnoticed. Thank you for all that you did.
"The Other Paul," a dear friend of my dad, shared this sentiment: "I remember the long conversations we used to have. Your dad was full of stories, and I will miss our talks. His life was an adventure, and he lived it to the fullest. Rest easy, OC. You left an impact on everyone you met." These words capture how deeply Dad touched the lives of those he knew, always leaving a lasting impression.
Dad always told me to bring my friends up to Heart Lake, saying, “Bring the crew, I will have food on the table.” I wish I had taken him up on that more often. The trail to get there, though, was no joke. He called one section “Sweat Valley” for a reason. I remember one year trying to get to the cabin with my brother, but between his injuries and my own lack of strength, we had to turn back halfway through. But my dad, ever the force of nature, would break that trail on his old, heavy snowmachines, cutting trees and building snow bridges along the way. He was the strongest, most bullheaded man I’ve ever known.
Leif Weisner, my brother from another mother, also wrote a note that moved me: "Dear Mr. Troll, On this cold, rainy day you blessed us with... I’m sure you are tickled silly and happy to see everyone here. I am very thankful to have met you and spent all the time together that we did. You made an awesome daughter that I can call my best friend. Till we meet again, take it easy, OC." Leif, thank you for reminding me of the happy life my dad lived and for your friendship.
Feeding people was one of my dad’s greatest love languages. When I was a kid, I didn’t think much of the big breakfasts he’d make or the meals we shared—beaver, muskrat, and other wild foods from the land. Now, I realize how much love he put into those meals. So, thank you to everyone who brought dishes to share at the celebration. It felt like a tribute to him. There was even a little battle over who got to take the Mayor’s Salsa home!
My dear friend Jess also wrote: "Hey OC... Rest in the moosiest, most wild forest of your dreams. Please keep sending Sierra signs you’re still with her so she never feels alone. She loves you so much, and I know she will continue your legacy until it’s time to meet you in your cabin in heaven." Jess, your words brought me so much comfort, and I truly feel my dad with me, guiding me in small ways every day.
One moment from the day that still makes me laugh: I had told my mom that maybe the cold and wind would make people leave early, so we could clean up and head home. Not five minutes later, a huge gust of wind came through, knocking over tents and scattering everything. Bryce had to hold on to a tent for dear life, and Leif came rushing over to help. I have no doubt my dad had a good laugh at that.
Thank you again to everyone who loved and admired my dad, and thank you for loving me as I navigate this immense loss. My heart aches for him every single day, but it is also full of gratitude. I miss you, Dad.
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