Obituary of James Gordon Connell
With great sadness and heavy hearts, we say goodbye to an extraordinary and unfaltering father, grandfather, husband, son, brother, brother in-law, uncle, and friend. James Gordon ‘Jim’ Connell passed away unexpectedly on December 9th, 2023, in his 76th year.
Jim is survived by his mother (Ella Connell), his daughters, Stephanie Smith (Ralph Zabel) and Andrea Smith (Adin Richardson), his grandchildren, Ben, Max, Finn, Ivy, and Elsie, his brothers Dave (Denise), Bruce (Emma), Doug (Lu-Anne), Jeff, and his sisters Liz (Paul), Barb (Greg) and KC (Ron), his many nieces and nephews, as well as sister in-law Marlie (Jim) and brother in-law Sandy. Jim is predeceased by his wife (Sue Connell) and father (J. Peter Connell). He was retired from the Town of Perth where he worked for 25 years as Chief Building Official and Director of Protective Services.
Jim cherished his family and was a caring husband to Sue, his beloved partner of 30 years. He adored being Grampy to his grandchildren and relished the opportunity to teach them how to think and work with their hands through exposing them to the many artistic endeavours that were part of his life. He marvelled at his daughters as they became accomplished women that would make their mother so proud. Jim cherished the time he spent with Steph and Andrea and their families in Chelsea and Wakefield, and always returned home with stories to share with his mother during his regular visits. He was grateful for his mother’s company and enjoyed connecting with his brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, often joining for dinner at his mother’s house where he would learn of their endeavours. He was relied on for words of encouragement and a ready hand to help. His humour was dry, but always present, just as he was.
Jim was an artist and an avid collector of objects that inspired his artistic creations in woodworking, sculpting, and blacksmithing. He was most proud of the forge he built and thoroughly enjoyed the time he spent there designing, creating, and communing with his chosen artistic friends. He was an enthusiastic and accomplished baker, always interested in trying out new cookie recipes to add to his Christmas gifting repertoire and exploring maritime baking recipes. Jim appreciated solitude but valued friendship. His life was enriched by the love and support of many lifelong friends, whose companionship he treasured. Jim will be fondly remembered, always accompanied by his faithful companion, Poppy, who stayed loyally by his side until the end. Most of all, Jim valued a life well-lived.
Friends may pay their respects at the Blair & Son Funeral Home, 15 Gore St. W., Perth on Saturday, December 16th, 2023 from 12:00 to 2:00 P.M. The family wishes to invite friends and family to join them to celebrate Jim's life at a Memorial Service also to be held in Blair & Son the same afternoon at 2:30 P.M. followed by a reception. In remembrance, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or Salvation Army would be appreciated.
