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# Remembering a good ‘watch dog’
- URL: https://www.smdp.com/remembering-a-good-watch-dog-editor/
- Published: 2008-01-04T16:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-24T17:51:06.000Z
- Author: Guest Author
- Tags: Opinion, Montana, #archive-import

*By Rex Minter, Councilman 1955-1967, Mayor 1963-1967.*

A truly unique and memorable individual died Dec. 7\. William J. O’Connor lived a full and unusual life for 102 years. Most old time Santa Monica residents will remember Bill as “Watch Dog” O’Connor, a name given him by the Outlook because of his hobby of appearing before the City Council offering his suggestions and criticisms to on pending matters. His activities, which would be termed political activism today, were of great benefit to taxpayers. He had his detractors, especially among city officials that he claimed were not performing their duties in a properly. To say the least he was a colorful and interesting individual. Men like him do not come along often and he should be remembered for his actions as self appointed ombudsman of the city. Bill owned numerous parcels along Montana Avenue and in the waning years of his life he was active as a philanthropist, making gifts to Loyola Marymount University, Loyola High School, Marymount High School, St. John’s Medical Center and other organizations. I, for one, am indebted to him for his counsel and advice and I will miss him.

*Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on January 4, 2008.* [Read the original PDF.](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/smdp%5Fbackissues/010408.pdf?ref=smdp.com)