Jeffrey McConnell
March 15, 1952 - October 28, 2019

October 28, 2019. Jeff is predeceased by his parents, Robert "Rip" Norma McConnell sister, Sheri Hamilton. He is survived by his wife Amy Natale-McConnell; children, Kelly (Gary) Nestler, Jason (Beth) McConnell, Jaime McConnell Jordan McConnell; grandchildren, Eric Nestler, Emily Nestler, AJ Nestler, Hailey McConnell Nathan McConnell; siblings, Mike (Laura) McConnell, Cindy Munger Wendy (Wil) Schmolk; several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.


Jeff's life story will be shared during his visitation, Friday, November 1st, 2-4 6-8 PM, at the funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane, (Between 390 Long Pond Rd.). His funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, November 2nd, 9:30 AM at St. Lawrence Church, 1000 N. Greece Rd. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Greater Rochester Chapter, Parkinson's Foundation, Suite 1600, Rochester, NY 14620 in Jeff's memory.

Jeff was born to his parents, Robert "Rip" Norma McConnell in Wilmington, DE., on March 15, 1952. The family later moved to Camden, TN for a few years and then returned to Wilmington. During Jeff's high school years his athletic talent began to shine. At Concord High School he competed in football, baseball and basketball.

College coaches took notice and soon he was offered and accepted a scholarship to play basketball at Mercyhurst University. When he was able, he would attend his children grandchildren's sporting events.

From his early years he became a Notre Dame fan. His dad showed him the way and regularly made sure that Jeff was wearing the latest Notre Dame fan gear. If Notre Dame was on the tv it was a sure bet that Jeff was watching.

While attending Mercyhurst Jeff obtained a BA in Sociology. Jeff later returned to school at Brockport College where he graduated with his MPA in Public Administration. After school the opportunities arose to work for DePaul St. Joseph's Villa. He accepted and began his journey to Rochester where he began his career.

His favorite tv shows were all centered on sports. If he wasn't watching sports on ESPN, he would catch up on world events on CNN. He enjoyed reading sporting magazines and biographies centered on sports and inspirational stories. In his older years he participated in Rock Steady Boxing. This program offered those who were experiencing Parkinson's a chance to reconnect with being an athlete while maintaining strength. Even with the challenges that Parkinson's presented him his desire to compete never waned.

He was a proud dad and an even more proud grandfather. He mellowed over the years but along the way he taught his children independent living skills. His goal was for them to be strong and stand on their own facing whatever life would throw at them.

Jeff will be remembered for: his strength, both mentally and physically, having a sense of humor, integrity, being a mentor, easy going nature, practical approach to life and his forgiving nature. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.

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