Vince McConnell, 77, of Eyota, died Sunday, January 9, 2022, at Cottagewood Senior Living in Rochester. Vince was born September 5, 1944, to Fabian and Ethel (Kindt) McConnell. He grew up in the Dover/ Eyota area.
Vince spent many childhood summers, as a child, with grandparents and other relatives. He attended school at Dover/ Eyota through sophomore year of high school. In 1960 he moved with his family to Rochester, graduating from Lourdes High School in 1962. Vince continued to think of Dover/ Eyota as his home, being invited to his high school reunions there. Vince served in the United States Navy from 1963 - 1967, stationed in VietNam. Following his discharge from the Navy, Vince went to work for Olmsted County Highway Department. Working there 37 years at the Eyota shop.
Vince ran the game clock for D/E sporting events for 30 years. He also umpired for many ball games. He was an avid fan of all Dover/ Eyota sports. If not running the clock, Vince would be in the bleachers cheering with his buddys. In 2015 Vince was inducted to the 'Wall of Fame' at Dover/ Eyota Schools. In 2009 he was selected 'Eyota Senior Citizen of the Year'. Vince was a 50 year member of the Eyota American Legion, serving as Commander from 1970 -76, and served on the Legions Honor Guard squad playing taps.
In 1987 Vince married Shirley Quirk. They made their home in Eyota, where he was a member and volunteered for Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish.
Vince is survived by his wife, Shirley, siblings; Becky (Mike) Mendyk, Tony (Heather) McConnell, and Sarah McConnell. He is further survived by brothers and sisters-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Tim, sister, Gretchen Nesler, and a niece, Jenny Nesler.
A Funeral Mass will be 11 a.m. Saturday, January 15, 2022 at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Eyota, with the Reverend Tim Biren officiating. A visitation will be all at the church from 4-7 p.m. Friday and 10-11 a.m. Saturday. Burial will follow in Holy Redeemer Cemetery. The Eyota American Legion will conduct military graveside honors. Hoff Funeral Service of St. Charles is assisting the family with arrangements. www.hofffuneral.com.
Tributes
Linda Ellis Cure wrote on Jan 15, 2022:
"I have know Vince and the McConnell family all my life. Vince was so dedicated to the Eyota community. He had a great sense of humor and was always available to lend a helping hand. Sporting events always had Vince involved somehow. I have many fond memories. My condolences to Shirley and all of his family snd friends. Rest in Peace Vince."
Geralyn and Dave Lloyd wrote on Jan 12, 2022:
"We are saddened to hear of Vince\'s passing. He was a great guy and will be missed by everyone who knew him. Thinking of you and wishing you peace. Shirley. Geralyn and Dave Lloyd "
Tom Keefe wrote on Jan 12, 2022:
"My sympathy to Shirley and all the McConnells. Ethel and Fabian and their kids were special friends with Chris and Catherine Keefe and their kids. Especially Vince, Tim (a special friend and D-E classmate of mine) and Gretchen (a special friend and D-E classmate of my sister, Mary). Oh what a fun time at Vince and Shirley?s wedding and times at the ?Green Door?.
Condolences Tom and Sparky Keefe"
Jane (Morcomb) Sterrett wrote on Jan 12, 2022:
"Countless memories with Vinny (softball games, Buda Fest, Eyota Days?) from days past that I am thankful to have been part of. Sending thoughts and prayers to all as you celebrate Vince?s life."
Annette and Scott Evenson wrote on Jan 12, 2022:
"Our sympathy and prayers to Shirley and Vince?s entire family. So many wonderful memories? those Kolaches & fun get togethers!"
Jenny Henry Brannan wrote on Jan 11, 2022:
"Sending hugs your way.
I?ll always remember Vince?s sense of humor along with his laugh.
Cherish all those good times."
Ross Horn wrote on Jan 11, 2022:
"Sorry to hear of Vince\'s passing. Have many great memories of doing things with him. "
Karen Henry wrote on Jan 11, 2022:
"He was quite the Vince! "
Anna Warehime wrote on Jan 11, 2022:
"I am so sorry to hear of Vince\'s passing. Our prayers are with you and your families at this time.
God Bless,
Greg Holzer and Anne Warehime
from Eyota Bingo."
Jackie Peterson wrote on Jan 11, 2022:
"God gained another good guy...may God hold you in his arms to comfort you thru this difficult time .... hold your memories close until you meet again ~~~ hugs ~~~"
Haley Sanders wrote on Jan 10, 2022:
"I spent many years growing up with Vince from my elementary years at daycare in his home and all through my high school sporting events. Sending lots of hugs and love to you, Shirley. ?? "
Kevin Kullot wrote on Jan 10, 2022:
"So sorry to hear the news. I always remember Vince running the scoreboard and announcing the starting lineups before the games. He will be missed! RIP Vince! "