Howard A. McConnell, 85, passed away June 17, 2015 in Evansville, IN.

Howard was born in Fairmont, Illinois, June 1, 1930 to Thomas O. and Vashti E (O’Neal) McConnell.   

His family settled near the mining town of Somerville when he was just a young boy.  He lost both parents when he was 7 years old and lived with relatives until he joined the US Army in 1948. He was stationed in Japan as an interpreter during the Korean Conflict and received two Bronze Service Stars. 

 In 1950 he met the love of his life Patricia Ann Ice from Francisco, Indiana.  They were married October 18, 1951.  Together they had 5 children.  Patricia was called home to be with Our Lord on March 8, 1983. 

He was afforded another chance at love with Bonnie Jo Berfanger of Evansville, IN.  They were married July 8, 1984.  He retired after 36 years at Bristol Meyers.  Together they enjoyed traveling and being with family.  She passed away March 14, 2014. 

He will be remembered for his quirky smile, sense of humor and the strong man he was and the courage he faced each day. 

He was a member of VFW post 1114.

He is survived by his children, Attonia Chaney of Medical Lake, WA, LaDonna Brown (Marshall) of Hercules, CA, Kimberly White (Tom) of Elberfeld, IN,  Regina Forbes of Evansville, IN, and Charles McConnell of Mt. Vernon IN,  brother Marvin McConnell of Evansville, IN, sister Wanda Evitts of Dittmer, MO, 12 grandchildren and 10 great grand children, and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff at Select Specialty Hospital, whom Howard called his Angels in Ladies’ Clothes, for their wonderful care.

Services will be on Monday June 22, 2015 at 2:00 PM at Stodghill Funeral Home in Fort Branch with military service to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Visitation will be on Monday June 22, 2015 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the funeral home.