John L. McConnell

On October 2, 2025, John L. McConnell, 88, of Tecumseh, Michigan, passed away peacefully at the Hospice of Lenawee. He lived a rich and meaningful life centered on learning, teaching, service to others, and deep connections with family and friends.
After John served four years in the US Navy, he earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees at the University of Michigan and a Doctorate of Education from Wayne State University. Teaching at the middle school, high school and college levels, he shared his curiosity, humor and passion for knowledge with generations of students.
John was deeply committed to civil rights, peace and justice. He was a member of NAACP and People Against Racism organizations. Over many years, he prepared and served meals at the Church of Christ Soup Kitchen and for Share the Warmth. From the March on Washington til today, you could often find him at peaceful protests with a sign in hand bringing current issues to the forefront.
A model railroader since the age of 11, his enthusiasm continued throughout his life, building an extensive home model railroad layout wherever he lived. For 19 years he was an active member of the Blissfield Model Railroad Club.
He had a deep passion for automobiles from classics to customs, but most especially Porsches. He was the proud owner of a 1963 Porsche 356 which he owned for 56 years. He was a member of the Porsche Club of America for 60 years and a member of the 356 Registry where he enjoyed road rallies and autocrossing. He was a member of the Rocky Mountain Vintage Racing Club where he raced for 18 years and served as Chief Driving Instructor.
An avid fan of the Detroit Tigers from a young age, John followed baseball very closely and could share league stats and history with whoever would listen. He found joy in coaching his son's baseball teams and playing catch in the yard.
John was a strong supporter of the arts. Along with his wife, he was a season ticket holder to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the Detroit Repertory Theatre and the Detroit Public Theatre. They also regularly attended local performances at the Croswell Theatre, the Adrian Symphony, and Tecumseh Center for the Arts.
John was born in Detroit, Michigan on May 31, 1937 to John and Marie Isabelle (McBrien) McConnell. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Carole Ann (Gehrke) McConnell; daughter Nicole (Steve) Pagett; son Kevin (Allison) McConnell; and grandchildren Jack, Duncan, and Olivia McConnell; and Josh and Sam Pagett. He is also fondly remembered by his nephews Jim, Karl and Mark Gehrke; sister-in-law Lorri McConnell and nieces Katie and Emily.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at 2pm in Knox Hall at First Presbyterian Church of Tecumseh.
Memorial contributions can be made to Michigan Public (NPR) , Detroit PBS or the Equal Rights Initiative.