James McConnell

ST. JOSEPH - James Lee McConnell, 76, of St. Joseph passed away on May 6, 2011 in Arizona.

A memorial service will be held 3 PM Saturday, May 28, 2011 at Pike Funeral Home, 9191 Red Arrow Highway, Bridgman with Reverend Christopher Noffke officiating. Friends may meet with the family from 1-3 PM prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be given to the Sarett Nature Center.

Jim was born December 6, 1934 in Coldwater, Michigan the son of the late Carl and Irma (Redick) McConnell. On August 27, 1955 he married Jonelle Jean Carrell. He was a 1952 graduate of Coldwater High School and received a Bachelor of Science from Tri-State College in 1957. Jim was a Staff Vice President of Whirlpool Corporation and retired in 1990. Prior to Whirlpool Corp. he worked at Heath Corporation. He was a board member of Sarett Nature Center, a member of the St. Joseph Elks Club, the Berrien Hills County Club and a US Army veteran. Jim and Jonelle spent their winters together in Green Valley, Arizona where he was a member of the Green Valley Recreation Lapidary Club and enjoyed golfing with his Thursday golf group, woodworking and silver smithing.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Jonelle; two daughters - Kathy (Rick) Nitz of Baroda and Lori (Terry) Leemaster of St. Joseph; five grandchildren - Justin Leemaster, Allison (Miles) Becher, Jordan Leemaster, Jayme Leemaster and Ashlee Leemaster. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather and enjoyed spending time with his family and will be greatly missed.

He was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, Deanna Jean in 1966 and a sister, Janice Sullivant in 1988

Gathering of Family and Friends

1-3 PM ,Saturday, May 28, 2011
Pike Funeral Home, Boyd Chapel
9191 Red Arrow Hwy Bridgman, MI 49106

Memorial Service

3 PM ,Saturday, May 28, 2011
Pike Funeral Home, Boyd Chapel
9191 Red Arrow Hwy Bridgman, MI 49106