It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Don A. McConnell, 80, of Sierra Vista, Arizona. Don was born on Nov. 28, 1944, in Compton, California, to Don Joseph McConnell and Dale Lorraine Connery. Don was a loving husband, father and grandfather and is survived by the love of his life, Shannon McConnell, and his daughters Natalie Hellem, Holly Phelps and Jennifer Ayala. He is also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Don was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Dana McConnell.
Don was nothing short of brilliant and received his Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, in 1982, his Master of Business Administration in 1983 and his Juris Doctor degree in 1986 from Seattle University. He was a distinguished member of the legal community in Lewis and Thurston counties, Washington, and was well known as an expert in his craft. He was licensed to practice law in Washington, Oregon and Arizona. Don was grateful to have one last visit with his dear lifelong friend, Jim Armstrong, just a week before his passing. The two shared years of memories not just as an attorney and private investigator, but as dear friends with a profound mutual respect for each other.
Don was always determined to serve his local community in Centralia, Washington, by sponsoring various activities such as Music in the Park, Fourth of July celebrations and countless others. If there was a need, Don tried to meet it. He also loved hot rods, motorcycles and scuba diving. Later in life, he became a master diver, an achievement he was very proud of.
Even more so, Don shined the brightest in his personal life. He made friends with everyone he met—no one was a stranger to Don. He was a devout Christian who had a beautiful and deep relationship with the Lord. Don loved his wife, Shannon, more than words could express. They spent the last 30 years together every day. They had great adventures throughout their marriage and shared a love story for the ages. Shannon was thankfully by his side, holding his hand as he left this earth to again walk with Jesus and his beloved mother, Dale, whom he adored. His family is assured that he will be waiting eagerly for them in heaven.
