Hugh Edward Conners

Hugh Edward Conners II was born May 29th,1936 in Rochester, Minnesota and spent his later childhood in Royal Oak, Michigan. Hugh graduated from Royal Oak High School in 1954 and then attended Western Michigan University where he met the love of his life, Gretchen. Hugh graduated in 1959 with a degree in Education. Hugh and Gretchen were married later that year and moved to California. In a strategic move to avoid being drafted and separated from his bride (for at least 2 years), Hugh signed up for the army reserve. He served at Fort Ord in Monterey, California for 6 months. In 1963, Hugh and Gretchen quit their jobs in teaching to sail to Europe and travel the continent for nearly eight months! They drove through more than a dozen countries in their little VW Karmann Ghia.

After returning from Europe, Hugh began a career in sales. He represented various companies, most notably, Proctor and Gamble. In 1985, the couple decided to open their own company selling retail packaging, Gretchen Conners and Assoc. Hugh would introduce his wife to customers and say "She's Gretchen." Then he would point to himself and say, "I'm the Ass." His relaxed, reliable and personal service endeared himself to his many customers for years.

Hugh was an avid golfer. He joined Castlewood Country Club in Pleasanton, Ca in 1970 and moved into a house less than 2 miles away from the golf course in 1977. He was a member for over 50 years and enjoyed playing almost every day.

Hugh's other passion was travel, especially cruising. He loved everything about cruising: the food, the ports, the pampering, the ships, the level of service and meeting people from all around the world. The only continent he didn't set foot on was Antarctica. He finally completed the final leg of circumventing the globe in 2022 and was very proud that he accomplished this goal. Other interests included reading and history, with an emphasis on World War II.

Hugh was heartbroken when Gretchen died of cancer in 2003, but found comfort when he met and married Barbara Nagel in 2005.

Hugh died peacefully in his sleep at home in Pleasanton, California, on April 2nd, 2023. He was surrounded by his children. Hugh is survived by his wife Barbara Conners, sister Kathleen (Conners) Parsons, son Hugh Conners III, three granddaughters, Erin, Tamilyn and Alyssa, and daughter Amy Conners.

As per his wishes, cremation has taken place. He will be missed by his family, golfing friends and neighbors. To honor him, you can play a round of golf! You can enjoy a large helping of sauerkraut with a stein of German beer! Or next time you wrap a gift, think of him when you tie on the bow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Meals on Wheels.

The family would appreciate reading your stories about their Dad in the guest book below. Thank you for being a part of Dad's life.