Patrick James Connor

Patrick James Connor, age 87, of Lafayette, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Lima Memorial. He was born April 7, 1938, in Lafayette to the late Gerald L. and Helen A. (Hawkins) Connor Peterson. He married Carole Dee Rumbaugh November 5, 1960, and she preceded him in death June 26, 2022.

Pat had been an engineer at Ford and had remained very techy and loved to learn. He had served in the Navy during peace time. He was a very active and faithful member of Lafayette Congregational Christian Church serving as a deacon, trustee and soundman among other duties. His hobbies included construction projects for family, golf and gardening. He loved trees and birds. He also loved music and had a great Irish sense of humor, imitating the Irish brogue. Above all he loved his sisters and brothers and supporting his children and grandchildren at their events.

Survivors include children Kelly (Timothy) Spallinger of Lafayette, Kathy (David) Whitaker of New Hampshire, Kevin (Michelle) Connor of Lima and Krista Connor of Waynesfield; grandchildren Kory (Cheri) Dillon (Brie), Eli, Ian, Hailey (Matt), Jenna (Spencer), Connor, Kennedy (Luke), Addison, Prestley, Blake, Claire and Cassidy; 6 great grandchildren, and sisters: Sharon (Jack) Wickham of Maumee and Laura Smith of Lafayette and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by siblings: Richard. W. (Diane) Connor, Colleen (Howard) Schick, Marcia (Jim) Vermillion and brother-in-law Larry Smith.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 30 at Lafayette Congregational Christian Church and one hour prior to the service. The funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at the church and burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to the church.