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Charles Connolly Obituary

CONNOLLY - Charles, our beloved passed on April 9, 2020 after 83 years of a life well lived. Devoted husband to Maureen for 57 years and proud father to Rosemary, Michael, Kathleen and Denise and their spouses Barbara, Joe and Jim. The best "Pop" to eight adoring grandchildren, Edward, Maeve, Joseph, Maggie, Madeline, Alyson, Aidan and Jack, having a special relationship with each. A loving Uncle Charlie/Chuck to 15 nieces and nephews, he was a loyal and trusted friend and neighbor to so many who already feel his absence. Born in Queens Village, NY to Charles and Irene, he was bro-ther to Edward (deceased) and Lillian O'Donnell. An Army Veteran and retired New York City Police Officer, Charles impacted countless lives. First and foremost a family man, he loved spending time with us, especially during summer vacations in Cape May. A patriot and history buff, crossword puzzle enthusiast and avid reader, he was tough but loving, had a great sense of humor and never gave bad advice. He passed knowing he was loved, after a two-week battle with COVID under the warm care of dedicated nurses and doctors. A celebration of life will be held at a future date. In the meantime, please continue to share your memories, moments, stories and prayers as they help during this very difficult time. Donations can be made to Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island NY 10306 or tunnel2towers.org

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Newsday on Apr. 14, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Connolly

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Laura Pecorella

April 8, 2021

I can´t believe it´s been a year already., like I said a year ago., Pop was a really lovely man., I looked forward to seeing him and Maureen every Wednesday, when I would pick up Edward for hip/hop. I miss his infectious smile.
RIP.., Pop

Cynthia Russo

April 19, 2020

The Connollys have been our close, trusted friends for some 40 years... our prayers are with you... Mr Connolly was a devoted and kind person... we will miss him!!
The Russo family

Cathy McDonald-Hassell

April 17, 2020

Mr. Connolly our lives were fuller, our hearts were lighter, and our street were safer when you were here with us. As a little girl that grew up across the street from you and considers herself a part of your family, we are heart broken at your passing. They say heaven has earned an angel but in this case they earned a guard, an even better distinction. A guard at the gates of heaven welcoming all the people in. You'll do it with a twinkle in your eye and a smile on your face. Your family is evidence of yours and Mrs Connolly's beautiful character, warmth and strength. There isn't enough space here to write all the stories of laughter, love, and strength experienced in your home. For sure, my life was better because you and Mrs C were in it! God speed Mr.C. See you at the gates! Cathy McDonald- Hassell and family.

Donald Kelly

April 15, 2020

I will always remember Charlie as our next door neighbor. One day Charlie told me to come to the backyard and he walked me to his shed. He opened the shed and there was a Schwinn Sting Ray. The one with the 5 speed Stick Shift. WOW What a bike. He gave me that bicycle that day. It was the coolest bicycle I had ever seen. I rode that bike until the tires fell off. Charlie was a great neighbor. He was also my youngest sister's God Father. I remember him giving my dad a Chevy Nova Wagon when we were struggling. He was a very generous man. His wife Maureen was a really nice person too. They were examples of a great family. We had a lot of fun as kids also. Rosemary, Michael, Kathleen and Denise. Awesome and fun times growing up with Charlies children. To all of Charlies Family, and I see it has gotten quite big, I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. I can only imagine all the great moments you shared with him. I certainly have my own great memories. Sincerest condolences, Donald Kelly

Donald Kelly

April 15, 2020

I remember Charlie as our next door neighbor. One day Charlie told me to come to the backyard and he walked me to his shed. He opened the shed and there was a Schwinn Sting Ray. The one with the 5 speed Stick Shift. WOW What a bike. He gave me that bicycle that day. It was the coolest bicycle I had ever seen. I rode that bike until the tires fell off. Charlie was a great neighbor. He was also my youngest sister's God Father. I remember him giving my dad a Chevy Nova Wagon when we were struggling. He was a very generous man. His wife Maureen was a really nice person too. They were examples of a great family. We had allot of fun as kids also. Rosemary, Michael, Kathleen and Denise. Awesome and fun times growing up with Charlies children. To all of Charlies Family, and I see it has gotten quite big, I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I can only imagine all the great moments you shared with him. I certainly have my own great memories. Sincere condolences, Donald Kelly

Gail Musella Wimmer

April 15, 2020

It has been a very long time since we have seen each other, but Charlie's death touched my heart. My sympathy goes out to Maureen and the family. God bless.
Gail Musella Wimmer

Joseph Deserre

April 15, 2020

Our deepest heartfelt condolences to the Connolly family'. My God Bless You in the hour of your deepest grief.

Kathy Morales

April 14, 2020

In my 15 years living next door to Charlie I have always been able to count on him for his greeting when I got home from work (and a gentle reminder that my registration or inspection was due in my car). I could not ask for better neighbors. To see the love between him and Mrs. Connolly (I never could call her anything different as this is how he referred to her) was evident and something to be inspired by. We will miss you so much (Dolce included). Our love and thoughts to the whole family now and always.

April 14, 2020

Even though he wasn't our Uncle through blood, has our Uncle through 50+ years of family friendship. Our families are one. Rosemary is my oldest and dearest friend. Words cannot express our heartfelt sorrow for the pain you are going through. We wish we could wrap you in our arms and comfort you through this horrific time. We hope you can feel the love, prayers and peace we are sending.......
We hope it will comfort you to know your Dad's spirit will live on in all the ways he shines through each and every one of you.
We love you all xox
Patricia & Steven

Laura Pecorella

April 14, 2020

Dear Pop., I started calling you that without even asking if it was alright. After getting to know you through my dear friend Rosemary, your daughter., you right away allowed me to become your friend and call you Pop. Like the article says , you did have a sense of humor but yes also so warm and loving. When my Mom passed away in October, one afternoon picking up his grandson Edward, Maureen and Pop comforted me with there warm words and a hug.
I looked foward to seeing him and Maureen every Monday picking up Edward for Zumba class. His smile will be missed, but I know we will never forget it.
Love, Laura P.

Michael & Marilyn Sacca

April 14, 2020

Charlie will be truly missed, he was my best friend and part of our family. He was always Uncle Charlie to our children. We had many wonderful vacations together and treasure all those memories.He loved his Key Lime pie and we loved him.

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