James "Jim" O'Conor

James “Jim” O’Conor, 83, passed away peacefully at his home in Moline, Illinois, on January 16, 2025, surrounded by love and the loyal companionship of his faithful dog, Lucy.

Born on November 10, 1941, in Moline, Illinois, Jim was the son of Frank and Catherine (Wilson) O’Conor. He was a proud lifelong resident of the Quad Cities, where his vibrant spirit and unique talents touched countless lives. Jim attended Augustana College in Rock Island before serving his country as a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War.

Jim dedicated many years to his community through his work, first as an employee of Ametek in East Moline, then as a trusted Moline letter carrier. After his retirement, his restless energy found new purpose at The Arc in Rock Island, where he worked in maintenance, and at Niabi Zoo, caring for the reptiles in the Reptile House—a passion that spanned his lifetime.

Jim’s love for reptiles was legendary, leading him to maintain an extensive personal collection he frequently shared with the public. Civic groups eagerly scheduled tours of his home to marvel at his reptiles, and he was a popular guest on the local television show *Captain Ernie*, where he showcased his expertise with both his personal collection and Niabi Zoo’s residents.

A gifted musician, Jim’s talent shone from an early age. He mastered the organ, saxophone, and clarinet, playing the organ at local venues such as Skate Ranch in Milan and C’s in Clinton, Iowa. His love for music extended to repairing and restoring organs, including the historic organ at the Capitol Theater in Davenport. Jim was a familiar face at auctions, where he sought old pump organs to restore and add to his cherished collection.

Jim also had a lifelong fascination with *Star Trek*, amassing an impressive collection of memorabilia that reflected his deep admiration for the show’s themes of exploration and connection.

Jim is survived by his children, Perry Frazelle and Pamela Frazelle Galvin; his grandchildren, Nicholas Frazelle of Rock Island, Brittany Frazelle Polley of St. Louis, Missouri, Tatiana Galvin Pruitt of Frisco, Texas, and Taelor Galvin Camus of Moline; and his beloved fur companion, Lucy, who remained faithfully by his side. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Catherine O’Conor, and his stepmother, Marie O’Conor.

Jim’s life was a tapestry of curiosity, creativity, and compassion. From the music he played to the reptiles he nurtured, his passion for the things he loved brought joy and wonder to those around him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In place of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jim’s memory to Niabi Zoo or a local animal shelter of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, January 26th, from 2-4 pm at Wendt Funeral Home, Moline, IL. The graveside inurnment will be on Monday, January 27th at 11 am at Rock Island National Cemetery; family and friends are to meet at Wendt Funeral Home at 10:30 am to join the processional to National Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and express condolences on his Memory Page at wendtfuneralhome.com.