Morley McCONNELL

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

McCONNELL: Morley Edmund McConnell passed away peacefully with his loving wife Marie at his side, on Saturday, October 31, 2009 at the Riverdale Health Centre after a long and courageous battle with heart and lung disease. Morley was born April 4, 1941 in Hamiota. He married Marie Stratford on October 20, 1961 and they resided briefly in Brandon, and then moved to Rivers. Most of Morley's working life was in insurance and real estate, first with O.L. Harwood; then with Stratford-Frame, Stratford- McConnell and finally with Way-Mor Agencies until ill health required him to take an early retirement. Morley was a strong community supporter and was always willing to step up and fill any position requested of him. He belonged to many organizations and emceed many community events during his life. He had a wonderful sense of humour and leaves many memories of laughter. A large part of Morley's life was his love of music, second only to his love for family and friends. Morley is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Marie; two daughters Debbie (Jerry) Johnston and Barb (Ian) Watson; grandchildren Ashley and Brayden Johnston, Taryn and Camryn Watson; brothers Verne (Jean) McConnell, Elgin/ "Red" (Ruth) McConnell, Kent (Maureen) McConnell; sisters Mavis Bray, Eula Woods, Mick (Lloyd) Little; sisters-in-law Maureen McConnell, Shirley (Nick) Kamula; brother-in-law Larry (Elaine) Stratford and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Roy and Minnie McConnell; his wife's parents Jim and Ev Stratford, brother Jim McConnell, brothers-in-law Ron Bray and Nelson Woods and sister-in-law Gwen Goodman. The service to celebrate Morley's life was held at Rivers United Church, Thursday, November 5, 2009 with Rev. Glenna Beauchamp officiating. Interment followed at Rivers Cemetery. Pallbearers were grandson Brayden Johnston, niece (our flower girl) Sandra Cowling, nephews: Kim McConnell, Chris McConnell, Terry McConnell and Brent Little. Organist was nephew Blaine Little, and Soloist was Stanley Runions accompanied by his wife Sheila. Thank you to Vern Schneider and Memories Chapel for helping us, his family, to make the day a wonderful celebration of Morley's life and to the Legion Ladies Auxiliary for the lovely lunch. Words fail to express our deep appreciation to the homecare workers and to the nurses, doctors and staff at Riverdale Health Centre for the loving care and shared humour that Morley received which helped him and his family through a very difficult time. A sincere thank you to all our family and friends for all their love and support. If friends desire, donations in memory of Morley may be made to Rivers Recreation Facilities Review Committee, Box 677, Rivers, Manitoba, R0K 1X0, or a charity of choice. "Forever in our Hearts"Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.memorieschapel.com. Arrangements were with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre, 727-0330.

As published in Brandon Sun on Nov 14, 2009