Mr. Tom McConnell

Thomas James McConnell passed from this life on September 16, 2010 at his home in Eureka, CA. Tom was born on February 8, 1965 in Trinity Hospital in Arcata, CA. He grew up in Arcata and attended Arcata High School, class of 83. When Tom was 15 years old he started working at the Red Lion in Eureka as a kitchen worker. He worked his way up to Sous Chef and worked at many other restaurants as a Dinner Cook. His last place of employment was the Cafe Marina, where he was a Dinner Cook for about 8 years, until his illness forced him to retire. Tom was taken from us by an illness that afflicted him his entire adult life. He underwent multiple major surgeries, and suffered greatly in his fight against this illness. Tom had a great fighting spirit and wonderful surgeons and doctors. Many thanks to Doctor Loncar, Doctor Hiedman and Doctor Irvine and all their staff members for being so helpful. Tom is survived by his parents Jim and Hilde McConnell, his sister Cindy Masterson, niece Jasmine Masterson, grandparents Troy and Bessie McConnell, aunt Annette, cousins Shelley and Stephanie and their families, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins in Germany. Arrangements are under the direction of Pierce Mortuary Chapel, Eureka, CA 707-442-3751, www.piercemortuarychapels.com.

Published in Eureka Times-Standard on October 3, 2010