SPARKS, NEV. – Edward T. O’Connor, 85, formerly of John Day, died Dec. 26, 2008 in Sparks, Nev.

Mr. O’Connor was born July 18, 1923 to Sidney and Lois O’Connor in Yreka, Calif.

He grew up in Little Shasta Valley (Siskiyou County), Calif., attending school in Montague and Yreka, Calif.

During World War II he served in the U.S. Air Force as a pilot with the 13th Army.

He graduated from the University of California and earned his CPA at Washington State University in Pullman, Wash. He practiced in Grants Pass, Sunriver and John Day, before retiring in Sparks, Nev.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Phyllis; sisters, Kathryn and Patricia and their families; son, Michael; daughter-in-law, Cinthya; daughter, Susan; six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Karen.