Obituary of Andrew J. Connell

Andrew J. Connell, 77, passed away Tuesday morning November 4, 2014 in WCA Hospital Jamestown, NY. He was born May 23, 1937 in Flushing, NY the eldest son of the late Arthur J. and Loretta J. Connell. Andy was a graduate of Chaminade High School, Mineola, L.I. and Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. Prior to 1990, Andy grew up and lived in Manhasset, L.I. and had a long history of sailing Lightnings on Long Island Sound with his brother Bob. He later sailed in numerous ocean races on maxi sailboats, competing in 15 Newport, RI to Bermuda races over a period of 30 years. He relocated to Lakewood, NY in 1991, purchasing Superior Jamestown/Adanlock Manufacturing. His love of sailing continued on Lake Chautauqua competing in E Scow racing. He enjoyed delivering for Meals on Wheels and contributing to other charitable organizations. A man of strong faith, he was a member of Holy Apostles Parish, Ss Peter and Paul Catholic Church. Andy is survived by his wife of 48 years, Ellen McKeon Connell; their three daughters, Eileen Turner (Andrew); Noreen Feldmann (Christopher); Bevin Shults (Edmond); and their six grandchildren he loved deeply; Ryan, Cate, and Will Feldmann; Drew and Ali Turner; and Parker Shults. In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren, he leaves behind his sister Susan Connell Murphy; and sisters in law, Pamela Swan Connell; Kathleen McKeon Meyer; and Patricia McKeon Puttreas; as well as many nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday in Holy Apostles Parish, Ss Peter and Paul Catholic Church. The Rev. Dennis W. Mende, pastor, will be celebrant. In lieu of flowers, donations in Andy's memory can be made to Lakewood Volunteer Fire Department 37 JW Packard Blvd. Lakewood, NY 14750; or WCA Hospital Emergency Room c/o WCA Office of Development 207 Foote Ave PO Box 840 Jamestown, NY 14702-9975.