Daniel Charles MacConnell

Daniel Charles MacConnell, known lovingly to many as Dan, Pops, and Grampa, went home to be with the Lord on April 30, 2025, at the age of 73.
Born on March 18, 1952, Dan lived a life grounded in faith, service and love. He was a man of unwavering principles - guided by his belief in God, his devotion to his country, and his deep commitment to his family.
Dan's strength came not just from his convictions, but from how he lived them. Whether through quiet acts of kindness, steady support, or simply being present, he made a lasting impact on everyone around him.
He was proud to be an American and never took for granted the freedoms and responsibilities that came with it. As a United States Army Vietnam veteran, Dan carried that pride with quiet dignity. His patriotism was stedy, sincere, and deeply felt.
He also had a light-hearted, fun-loving side. Dan had a great sense of humor and didn't mind sharing his opinion - whether you asked for it or not.
Dan was extremely proud of his last name. Being a MacConnell meant something to him - it meant loyalty, hard work, and always standing up for what you believe in. He carried that name with honor, and he passed that pride down to his children and grandchildren.
In his younger days, Dan enjoyed riding motorcycles, embracing the freedom of the open road. In later years, he found joy in a different kind of wild ride - feeding raccoons, birds, squirrels, and even the occasional mouse right in his front yard. As he liked to say, "Noah didn't have anything on me."
Dan is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Carey MacConnell, his sons Shawn and Scott MacConnell, his daughter Holly Bennett, son-in-law Jeremy Bennett, daughter-in-law Jessica MacConnell, his grandchildren: Gavin, Jackson, Owen, Carter, Aidyn, Savannah, and Logan. He is also survived by his sisters Jodi Le Belle and Nancy Salter.
His family will remember him as a man of deep faith, firm convictions, warm humor, and a heart big enough to care for everyone - including the animals.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 3pm at Gentry-Morrison Southside Chapel, 1727 Bartow Road, Lakeland, FL 33801.