Kenneth John McConnell
October 22, 2021
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Kenneth John McConnell, on Friday, October 22, 2021, at University Hospital, at the age of 76. Ken faced and fought a sudden onset of health complications due to cancer with grace and incredible courage. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 54 years, Viola McConnell; sons, Michael (Tracey) and Alan (Catherine) McConnell; grandsons: Braden, Jacob, Waylon and Jaden McConnell; sister, Rosemary Thompson and brother, Gordon McConnell; his sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, a loving family of nieces, nephews and cousins and many friends. He was predeceased by his sister, Brenda MacGowan and his parents, David (“Jackie”) and Margaret McConnell.
Born in Crossnacreevy Townland in County Down, Northern Ireland, Ken and family immigrated to Canada in 1978, settling in London, Ontario. Ken remained a lifelong fan of British football and Linfield F.C., was a dedicated player and coach and remained a regular fixture at the London Scottish Football Club even after his playing and coaching days had ended. Ken was an avid golfer and will be dearly missed by the regular gang of old timers at Oxbow Glen. Ken was always one to take on the thankless tasks in life, whether as a union rep, a condo board chairman or a soccer convenor, and he brought great dedication to them all. He was a favourite playmate for his adoring grandsons, to whom he exhibited great patience and encouragement.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be conducted at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Sunday, November 14, 2021 between 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Registration will be required to attend the celebration.
To register for the Celebration of Life, please click here: Registration page for Ken’s Celebration of Life on Sunday, November 14, 2021 from 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Ken are asked to consider a donation to London Health Sciences Centre.
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Such sad news, our condolences go out to all Ken’s family. We arrived in Canada in 1980 and played Soccer with Ken, lots of amazing memories from the Industrial League soccer days. In the last few years he also coached our son for indoor soccer. He will be truly missed by All. Malcolm & Gloria McKenzie
So sad to hear this news, ken was one of the nicest guys I’ve had the pleasure to meet . Played many years of football with Kenny and had many winning seasons playing for the carpet place team in the london industrial league, and ken was a very big part of the success we had back in the day. My thoughts and prayers go out to Kens wife and family , Roger Hexter.
Whether over a wee pint of guiness with me or us down in the east drainage ditch Ken always had the time & gumption to get the job done. Great leader on the Board as I learned much from Ken. Hopefully I won't fail him now as I do not have his guidance to rely upon. Rose & I enjoyed Ken's quick visits which were always about condo matters. We'd discuss issues, most times agreeing .. though some times not. It didn't matter. We always agreed what was important & what was not. I'd meet Ken on the property walking talking pointing out things to one of his grandsons. He'd introduce them to me. Beaming. Our deepest sympathy to Viola. Your loss is our grief. With our deepest sympathies. Rose & Dan. Unit 09.
Ken was a great guy, I was privileged to play with him for many years,there was never a bad word said against Ken, I know he will be sadly missed, My condolences to the family Willie Holden
Ken did so much for the Scottish Masters team over many years. Organizing the team every year from collecting payments, team meetings and all other admin. A thankless task and gave many guys the opportunity to keep enjoying soccer. Kenny was a cornerstone at the club, a good friend and will be greatly missed.
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Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Ken are asked to consider a donation to London Health Sciences Centre.
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Our deepest condolences to Viola and family. Ken was a amazing person. So glad to have gotten to know him & Viola since moving into my condo 5 years ago. Always cheerful to be around, a great help when needed, always will to lend a hand. Ken will be greatly missed xoxo Ami, Jason & Auburn
~ Ami Reed