Cecil Connelly

CONNELLY, Cecil Lloyd Of Ottawa, passed away at his home January 20, 2006, at the age of 95. He will be sadly missed by his wife of 68 years, Myrtle (nee Keech), their 4 children, Shirley Gilchrist, Bill Connelly, Mary Saso, and Ronald Connelly (Jane Cronin); and son-in-law Charlie Saso. He is remembered with love and laughter by his grandchildren Daniel, Randal (partner Liz Striegler), Corinne, Rosalind (Leicester Collet) and Nancy Gilchrist; Gregory (fiance Lisa Bottomley and son Colin) and David Connelly (Penny); Erin, Paul, Emily and Kathleen Saso; Kathleen, Anne and Jonathan Connelly; and his great-grandchildren Noah, Charlotte, Quintin, Lauren, Gracie and Wyatt. Cecil was born in Cobalt, Ontario, May 1, 1910, the son of David Connelly and Mary Graff. After assisting in his father's dairy business, he sold Rawleigh products to the farm community. He then opened a gasoline business, owned and operated General Motors dealerships in New Liskeard, Ontario and Ottawa and Gray-Harvey Wholesale Hardware Company. He and his son Bill built New Orchard Lodge, a residence for seniors. He initiated and worked with others to build community projects as President of the Lion's Club, the Shrine Club, the YMCA, and as an active member of Kingsway United Church. He was also a President of the Ontario Automobile Dealer Association and the Canadian Wholesale Hardware Association. In his spare time, he enjoyed being with family at his cottage on the Rideau Lakes and golfing and curling with friends at the Hunt Club. His greatest joy came from leading sing-a-longs at home accompanied by his family on the violin, guitar and piano. His friendliness, sense of fun and empathy for others touched all who knew him. The loyalty, support and love he gave his wife, children and siblings will always be remembered and cherished. Friends may visit at the Central Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 315 McLeod Street, on Monday, from 2 - 4 and 7 - 9 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at Kingsway United Church, 630 Island Park Drive on Tuesday, January 24th at 1 p.m. Interment Pinecrest Cemetery. Donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, YMCA, or Shrine Hospital would be appreciated. The family would like to thank Dr. Robert Eaton and the nursing staff, Sandi Cameron, Norah Forsythe, Lee Hudson, Myrna Brown, and Phyllis Murray for the loving care they have provided Cecil and Myrtle over many years.