John E O'Connor

John Edward O’Connor, II, 56, of Port Huron, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, February 21, 2016 peacefully in his home.

He was born April 5, 1959 in Port Huron to the late John Edward and Donna Jean O’Connor, and was raised by Fred Allen, who preceded him in death. He married his high school sweetheart, Karen L. Loxton on July 8, 1978 in St. Stephen Catholic Church.

John’s career as a chef began at Allen’s Coney Island. He was owner and operator of Loxton’s Family Restaurant, was an active member in Port Huron Moose Lodge #158 and Eagles Aerie #3702.

John’s love for life and family was visible to all. His greatest passion, after his family and friends, was being on the water, and “cooking with love.” He also enjoyed being chief cook aboard freighters of American Steamship Lines on the Great Lakes.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Karen; his son, John E. O’Connor, III (Heather Silk); two daughters, Tiffany L. O’Connor (Jac Houel) and Tara L. O’Connor (Brendan Savard); grandsons, Keon, Jacques and Nico; mother-in-law, Mary Loxton; also surviving are numerous brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and many close friends. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Gene Loxton and brother-in-law, Dave Loxton.

Visitation will be 2-9 p.m. Thursday in the Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home.

Mr. O’Connor will lie in state at Holy Trinity Parish - St. Stephen Catholic Church from 10-11 a.m. Friday until the time of the Funeral Mass.

Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, February 26, 2016 in Holy Trinity Parish - St. Stephen Catholic Church. The Reverend Salvatore Palazzolo will officiate.

The family prefers that memorials be made to his grandson’s education funds.