Robert Connell

Robert L. Connell passed away on March 25, 2010. He is survived by the love of his life, Louise, his wife of nearly sixty years. Also keeping his memory are daughters: Alice, Rita, Dorothy, son Robert Jr., son-in-law Ray, daughter-in-law Julie and three grandchildren: Jennifer, Lauren and Mallory. Robert was born to Mary and William Connell on February 14, 1923 in Yonkers, New York. As a young man, he left New York to join the Civilian Conservation Corp. He was deeply impressed with the wilderness while building bridges, roads and lodges in Montana. At age 18, he returned to New York to enlist in the Navy. He served on numerous ships during WWII, the first ship being torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine. He planned to make a career of the Navy, but after meeting Louise at his sister Mary's wedding, requested an honorable discharge. He married Louise, daughter of John Fitzpatrick, in Yonkers, New York on May 13, 1950. Robert yearned for the West, and moved his family from New York to Oregon. He worked in the Northwest Redwood forests, and graduated from Oregon Institute of Technology. Later he worked until retiring, as an engineer for the United States Federal Government at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. Robert earned various awards for implementing technology. Robert's favorite quote was by poet Robert Louis Stevenson, "To travel is better than to arrive". He sought adventure and enjoyed experiencing much of the world through his seven years in the Navy. His countless trips to special parts of the country with his family, and later with Louise after retirement, continued his journeys. Robert was involved and very enthusiastic with his family's numerous hobbies. He affectionately allowed for unusual pets and was always very humorous. Robert exhibited such examples of kindness, dedication, sacrifice, and honesty toward his family and those who knew him. Robert L. Connell, husband, father and friend, will forever be missed, remembered and loved. Robert Connell's family thanks Hospice of Prescott and JB Care Home for their sincere and compassionate care. Burial will be held 11:00 AM on April 30, at the National Memorial Cemetery in Phoenix.

Robert Connell

February 14, 1923 - March 25, 2010