Jack "Pup" Connell

MARION - Jack "Pup" Connell, 82, passed away peacefully at 4:10 a.m. Friday, April, 19, 2013, at his home with his loving wife by his side. According to Jack's wishes, there will be a time of gathering for family and friends from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, April 22, at Blue Funeral Home in Marion. Military Rites will be conducted at 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home. There will be no other services. Memorials may be made to American Cancer Societyor Hospice of Southern Illinois. Envelopes are available at the funeral home or may be sent c/o Blue Funeral Home, P.O. Box 411, Marion, IL, 62959. Born Saturday, Dec. 20, 1930, in Williamson County, he was one of three sons born to William J. and Stella (Robinson) Connell. Three days prior to his 25th birthday, Pup married the love of his life, Charlotte Parris, on Saturday, Dec. 17, 1955, in Marion. Together they shared nearly 58 years of marriage. In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his two brothers, Billy Connell and Robert L. "Dog" Connell. Jack is survived by his loving wife, Charlotte; children, Terrie and Ed Welter of Golconda, Scott and Brenda Connell of Marion, Bill Connell of Carbondale and Sarah and Chuck Robertson of Marion; grandchildren, Robert and Robbie Welter, Gregory and Christine Welter, Britney and Gabe McClellan and Katie Connell and fiancé, Scott Crompton; great-grandchildren, Quintin, Makenna and Makayla Welter, Heaven and Lane McClellan and Shyanne Crompton; mother-in-law, Dortha Williams; sister-in-law, Patsy Connell; and three nieces and one nephew. Jack served his nation proudly as a member of the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. Before his military service, Jack had graduated from Marion High School, lettering in basketball as an exceptional player. Jack formerly owned "Corner Tavern" in Murphysboro. He had retired from CIPS as a tool and dye maker. After his retirement, Jack went to work as the General Manager for Rend Lake Beverages. He was a member of Marion Elks, VFW and American Legion.