Obituary of Daniel Michael McConnell

McCONNELL, Daniel Michael of Saginaw Twp., MI Our beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother passed away Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at his home surrounded by his family. He was 85 years old. Daniel was born May 18, 1926 in Mt. Pleasant, MI to the late Maurice and Kathleen (Sweeney) McConnell. Daniel M. McConnell was married to Barbara Luecke on February 2, 1952 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Mt. Pleasant. She survives him. Dan proudly served his country during WWII with the U.S. Army. He then received his Bachelor's Degree from Central Michigan University, where he played baseball for four years; and then furthered his education at Western Michigan University receiving his Master's Degree and EDD. Dan served as the Superintendent of Schools for a total of 26 years, serving the last 13 years in Saginaw Township, retiring in 1980. He was a member of St. Stephen Catholic Church, the Lions Club, Knights of Columbus #4232, Kiwanis, Germania Club, Michigan Association of School Administrators and served as the Township Treasurer for eight years. Dan was proud of his Irish heritage and graciously volunteered in the community. Dan is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Barbara; their children: Mike McConnell, Lynn Soderstrom, Kerry (Stacia) McConnell, Kevin (Renee) McConnell, Ann Duplissis, Dan McConnell and Wendy Garrity and her fiancé, Jon Suprise; grandchildren: Sarah (James) Klingenberg, Kathleen and Bryan McConnell, Danielle and Kevin Duplissis, Maggie and Hannah McConnell, Kelli, Shane and Megan McConnell, Luke and Mike Garrity; great grandson, Cameron Klingenberg; sister, Maureen Wardrop; brothers: Larry (Marge) McConnell and Ty (Rudelle) McConnell; many nieces and nephews. FUNERAL: Dan's Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 12, 2011 at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 1310 Malzahn, Saginaw. Rev. Fr. James G. Heller will officiate. According to Dan's wishes, cremation will follow the Mass. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Thursday, August 11, 2011 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. A Vigil service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Dan will lie in state at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. Stephen Catholic Church or the Daniel McConnell Scholarship Fund.