Isaiah 40:31: "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles they will run and not grow weary they will walk and not be faint."
Pictured above is Bill OConnell with his hearing dog, June.
It is with rejoicing and sadness that we announce the passing of Wisdom Over Wealth’s founder, Bill OConnell. Bill was one who founded his hope in the Lord and throughout the trials and successes of life, experienced the Lord renewing his strength. Although the employees and clients of Wisdom will experience the loss of Bill, we rejoice in his final healing.
Much can be said about the impact Bill had on Wisdom as a business, in fact we wrote about that here for his retirement, but today we wanted to honor who Bill was. And, as Bill was multi-faceted, it is only right that we share the thoughts from a few members of the Wisdom team on who Bill was and his impact on their life.
“Bill was a renaissance man. He knew a lot about a lot! It was always fun chatting with him as he was such a great storyteller! Bill has been more than a business colleague or a business partner - he has been more of a friend and father. I am so grateful to have known him and look forward to seeing him again in Glory! “
Allison Michaud, Partner
“Bill’s humor was one for the books. In any situation, no matter how stressed we were, I could count on Bill’s quick wit to bring out laughs. He was full of joy, integrity, and wisdom and brought that out in everyone he knew. I am so thankful for the years I got to learn, grow, and laugh with Bill. I am the person I am today because of Bill’s guidance and his trust in Jesus.
‘See you again in eternity’. “
Krystal Steenbeke, Manager
“Bill was the best boss and world class mentor I have ever had. In recent conversations he would, what I would call, eulogize himself. I loved and hated that. I hated it because in my selfishness I did not want to hear it. I loved it because it reminded me that Bill lived life abundantly and full. He knew earth was temporal and heaven is eternal. His sights were always set on Jesus in every aspect of his life. Thank you for empowering, encouraging and championing me. Well done, Bill. “
Meghan Hopkins, Manager
“If I had to sum up Bill’s impact on my life, it would be to call out, equip and empower me to walk in all God has created and call me to. My interview started with Bill telling me the things he had heard I was good at and that didn’t stop throughout our relationship. Every step of the way, Bill’s intention in relationship was to allow the Kaitlin God had created me to be, to shine. And I will forever be thankful for that. And, thankful that Bill no longer has the need to remind himself: illegitimi non carborundum.”
Kaitlin Spalsbury, Partner
“I had the joy of working with Bill for the past 16 years. I have missed the daily talks, updates and true camaraderie we had while I worked with him in his home office. We have been through much growth, new staff and systems, and a lot of changes. He will always be remembered as one of the ‘White Hat Guys’ and a man of his word. Be at peace now, Bill. You will be greatly missed.”
Marlene Simeone, Office Manager
“Bill was a kind man with a heart for God in a way that it continues to show in this company he created. We were all blessed and continue to be blessed by the legacy he founded. I’m honored to continue being a part of that legacy. “
Kim Roina, Staff Accountant
“Bill was a generous and kind man who was always around to chat whenever I needed. He always had words of wisdom and encouragement. He offered for me to join his work family 3 years ago and never did I imagine the work environment and work family I was joining. It was a true blessing to get this opportunity offered to me by Bill. He built a one-of-a-kind business that I will be forever grateful to be a part of. He will be missed, and I am continuing to pray for his family.”
Laura Quiles, Staff Accountant
To read more about Bill’s life, you can see his obituary here. If you have stories you want to share about Bill, we would love to hear. Please email partners@wisdomoverwealth.com with your stories!