Dennis R. Connell

1951 - 2023

Dennis R Connell, 72, Of Bethlehem, passed away on July 24, 2023 at home. Born on February 21,

1951. The son of the late James and Kathryn (Turiocy) Connell. Dennis was a graduate of Hellertown High School and Penn State University- Professional Architecture Program. As an Architect Dennis was well known and respected throughout the Lehigh Valley, NJ and Philadelphia region. As the Consummate professional his career was lauded with achievements, awards and appointed positions; including: 2001 Received Architectural License in NY; 1997-1998 Established DeCo Management Corp, a design-build company in Bethlehem; 1992 Received Architectural License in NJ; 1983 Established Form Space Design in Bethlehem, PA; 1978 Received Architectural License in PA; 1974-1983 Employed as Project Architect with Spillman Farmer Architects, Bethlehem, PA; 1974 Received Bachelor of Architecture degree, Pennsylvania State University; 1973-1974 Participated in Work/Study Program with Theodore Waddel, Florence, Italy; 2006-2010 President, Pennsylvania State Architects Licensure Board; 2004-2005 Vice President/Secretary Pennsylvania State Architects Licensure Board; 2002-2010 Member, PA State Architects Licensure Board; 2005-2009 Member, ARE Committees for the National Council of Architectural Registration Board; 1998-2019, City of Bethlehem Code Board of Appeals; 1995-2017, Association of Consultants for Liturgical Space; 1994-2018,Interfaith Forum on Religion, Art and Architecture; 1994-1996 Pennsylvania Regional Director, National Board of Directors of the American Institute of Architects; 1992 President, Pennsylvania Society of Architects (now AIA PA); 1990 Adjunct Professor, Architectural Design at Northampton Community College; 1987-1996 Member, Architecture & Interior Design Advisory Committee, NCCC; 1989-1996 Executive Committee, Treasurer, Board of Directors, PA Society of Architects; 1986 President, Eastern PA Chapter, AIA; 1983-Present Professional Member, International Code Council; 1982-1986 Executive Committee, Treasurer, Board of Directors, Eastern PA Chapter, AIA; 1978-Present Member, American Institute of Architects; 1996-Present Member, Sports Car Club of America; 2001-Present Member, British Car Club of the Lehigh Valley; Dennis was known for his open door policy at his North New Street Office since 1983. Especially on St. Patrick's Day where guests would be offered a nip of whiskey, some quick wit, excellent conversation and were welcome to view "the Quite Man" on repeat for the entire day. Dennis's passion for Architecture was equally matched by his passion for sports cars and racing. A ride with Dennis in the Bethlehem Country side in one of his Lotus sports cars was an adventure to say the least.Friends of Dennis will remember him as an honorable Gentleman and a man of integrity who lived his life on his own terms and at his own pace. Dennis Spoke quietly and his words were always well thought out. His sense of Humor and Puns will be missed. Survived by brother Jim Connell Sr., sister in law Kathy Connel, nephews Jimmy, Matt, and niece Shannon. He was predeceased by his brother John Connell. A service will be held at 11AM on August 1st at Falk Funeral Homes 1418 Main St. Hellertown, PA 18055. All are invited to gather beginning at 10am. Internment will follow at the Union Cemetery of Hellertown. To leave online condolences, please visit his "Book of Memories" at falkfuneralhomes.com