Southland Says Goodbye to a Beloved Police Chief

Tinley Park Police Chief Mike O'Connell, who , got a warm farewell from his family and colleagues at St. Stephen Deacon and Martyr Catholic Church in Tinley Park.

"You probably wouldn't have liked all the attention, but it's what you deserve," said daughter Michelle Anichini at the Monday morning funeral service. "We love you to the moon and back."

O'Connell's other two children also spoke at the funeral. Colleen O'Connell said it would be hard to capture her father in a few words but, "we'll do our best, just like you always taught us."

Son Michael O'Connell Jr. also remembered his father as a teacher, one with a great love for the outdoors. "Your favorite time of day was sitting outside at daybreak listening to the world come alive," he said.

O'Connell's family was joined by city and state police from all over the south and west suburbs in mourning the nearly 40-year police veteran's death.

View the Patch photo gallery of the funeral procession and police salute to O'Connell.