Thomas James Mcconnell

Thomas James McConnell, 63, of Keeler Township passed away Friday, Aug. 1, 2014, at home.

Per Tom's wishes, cremation has taken place, and a memorial celebration to honor his memory will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, at Keeler Church of God, with Pastor Boyd Saylor officiating. The family has requested that those wishing to make a memorial do so to the family. Memorial condolences for the family can be left at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

Tom was born July 1, 1951, in Watervliet, the son of Allen and Tinnie (Miller) McConnell. He was a graduate of Hartford High School, class of 1969, and for a number of years he was employed at the Zenith/Heath Corp. in St. Joseph. He also worked at Coloma Spa and Pool. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing; playing Christian songs on his guitar, including many that he wrote; and woodworking. He actually built the home the family lived in. He was in the U.S. Army during Vietnam.

Tom married the former Nancy Hoyt on July 14, 1969. She survives, along with two sons, Randy McConnell of Baroda and Brian (Lori) McConnell of Elkhart, Ind.; four grandchildren; his mother; a brother, Charles McConnell; and four sisters: Sue Hand, Anita Bard, Barbara Roush and Betty Bitely.

Tom was preceded in passing by his father and two sisters, Cindy Glenn and Loretta Mesick.