NJ Runner & Beloved Vet Tech Anna O’Connor, 24, Passed Away, Leaving Her Fiancé Daniel Perrault

Anna O'Connor's life was built on peace, family bond, and the loyalty of a canine friend.

December 19, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 19, 2026

Anna O’Connor, an avid runner from Jefferson, New Jersey, passed away tragically and unexpectedly at 24 in December 2026.

She graduated from Mountain Lakes High School in 2019 and attended James Madison University.

The simple rhythm of a run was more than exercise for Anna, and it was a personal sanctuary. She found clarity, reflection, and renewal with every step she took on the path from a young age.

Running shaped her spirit, and animals captured her heart. Her love for animals naturally guided her toward a life in veterinary medicine.

Moreover, her home was joyfully shared with a loyal dog for most of her adult life. Her bond with the pet dog deepened her understanding and compassion for all creatures.

Afterward, Anna dedicated herself professionally to their care and worked as a skilled and caring veterinary technician at animal hospitals throughout the tri-state area.

Also, see: Marathon Sports Maine Runner Diane Bell Passed Away In A Tragic Car Vs. Runner Accident In Franklin Street

Anna O’Connor’s Family Mourns the Tragic Loss

Anna Kali O’Connor was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, fiancée, and friend who left the world far too soon.

The radiant light of her love, kindness, and vibrant spirit will forever illuminate the hearts of all who knew her.

Anna Kali O’Connor, the daughter of Kevin O’Connor and Andrea Axt, was born on February 13, 2001. Her family grew with love, welcoming stepmother Therese Smerklo and stepfather Chris Brauchle.

They created a foundation of unwavering support and joy alongside her siblings, Sophia and Kevin Jr., throughout her life in Boonton Township and Denville.

Anna’s passions painted the picture of a joyful soul who loved listening to music and relaxing with her favorite scary movies. Her greatest joys were found in simple, meaningful moments with those she loved.

Her happiest times were Summers at the family beach house in West Gilgo Beach on Long Island, filled with laughter, love, and the cherished company of her extended family.

Furthermore, her life was brightened with immense joy when her longtime boyfriend and the love of her life, Daniel Perrault, proposed in April 2026. She happily accepted, looking forward to their future together.

The couple shared a deep love for the outdoors, spending countless hours exploring wooded trails on their ATV. They made their home in Jefferson, New Jersey, where Anna was living at the time of her passing.

Anna is survived by her heartbroken fiancé, Daniel Perrault; her father, Kevin O’Connor, and stepmother Therese; her mother, Andrea, and step-dad Chris; and her siblings, Sophia and husband Jack McCaffery, Kevin Jr. and his wife Krysta O’Connor, Christian, and Cate Brauchle.

She shared a close bond with her maternal grandmother, “Grammie” Kaliope; paternal grandmother, “GiGi” Jean O’Connor; and a wealth of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Similarly, she leaves behind her future in-laws, Brent and Wendy Perrault, and her future brother-in-law, Austin, and his wife Hanna.

On the other hand, she is preceded in death by her grandfathers, Robert and Joseph; her cherished niece, Kali Rose; and her childhood pets, Kaiser, Lily, and Milkshake.

The O’Connor family announced a memorial visitation on Monday, December 22, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM at the Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ.

Instead of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Anna’s memory to Real Dog Rescue, a cause close to her heart.

Anna’s journey was brief, but her legacy of love, joy, and compassion is eternal.

Rest In Peace, Anna Kali O’Connor.

People also viewed: Six Survivors, One Fatality: A Joyride Turned Deadly for Texas Runner Jacob Rodriguez

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Ashish Maharjan, author at Players Bio, has been covering news with a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling. A writer with a passion for capturing the essence of athletic competition.

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