Michael Patrick Connell

Michael Patrick Connell, 75, of Edwardsburg, Michigan, passed to his rest Aug. 19, 2025, after an extended illness, with his family by his side.

He was born March 8, 1950, in Dowagiac, Michigan, the son of William and Jean (Brooks) Connell, and has lived in the area all his life. He was an educator for 34 years in the Edwardsburg School System, mostly teaching sixth grade. He loved coaching football, track and girl's volleyball. When his sons began playing soccer, he coached them. He also enjoyed negotiating contracts for the EEA.

Mike was married July 29, 1972, in Edwardsburg to Kathy L DeSchepper, and they have two sons, Chad (Jill) Connell of Carmel, Indiana, and Trevor (Amanda) Connell of St Joseph, Michigan, and four grandchildren, Kaelan, Riley, Kaya and Kodah. There is also a brother, William of California. Family who preceded him in passing are his parents, William and Jean Connell, and his sister, Valerie Connell.

In the summers, Mike had his own painting and wallpapering business. His hobbies included metal detecting, snowmobiling, bicycling, kayaking and reading. The two highlights of his life (besides the birth of his two sons) were hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and going on an Alaskan Adventure with his sons. In his later years, he enjoyed socializing with his friends for morning coffee. He had been an active member of the Knights Of Columbus at the Church.

Family and friends may gather on Tuesday, Aug 26, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Our Lady Of The Lake Catholic Church, 24832 US-12 East, Edwardsburg. The Mass Of Christian Burial will begin at 11:30 a.m. with Father Rob Johansen officiating. Internment will follow at Adamsville Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to American Parkinson's Disease Association, or to Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. Arrangements are by Paul E. Mayhew Funeral Home of Edwardsburg.