He was born in Risco, Missouri on March 17, 1932, the youngest of 6 brothers and sisters. After serving in the Air Force during the Korean conflict, Bob was the first in his family to attend college where he earned an electrical engineering degree from the Missouri School of Mines in Rolla, Missouri. Upon graduation he went to work for Shell Oil Company. As part of his training he was sent to Hobbs, New Mexico and in 1958 met his soulmate and best friend Florene Jane Cooper. He proposed to Florene in November of 1958 and they were married in January of 1959 in Glendive, Montana. They were married for 63 years.
Bob was an engineer’s engineer. He was thoughtful and discerning while having a heart to serve God and care for his family. He served others faithfully without the expectation or desire for recognition. A loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A faithful member of The Woodlands First Baptist Church, Bob enjoyed and loved his church family where he served as a deacon and served on many committees. He enjoyed rooting for the Astros and Rockets and doing woodwork for family and friends. He adored his family with all his heart. He looked forward to family gatherings during the holidays, playing golf, attending graduations, making trips to see brothers and sisters and nieces and nephews. He also loved taking trips with Flo to places like Israel, Europe, Hawaii and other places all over the United States.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents Edgar and Inez McConnell, and his brothers and sisters Forrest, Warren, Walter, Helen, Florence and Jim. He is survived by his wife Florene McConnell, daughter Linda Shaver (Scott) of The Woodlands, Texas, son Jim McConnell of Coppell, Texas, and son Mark McConnell (Susan) of Brandon, MS, grandchildren Katy Dorr (Luke), Claire Shaver, Sydney McConnell, Sarah McConnell, Kristen LaPaglia (Tanner), and Caroline McConnell, and great grandchildren Charlie Dorr and June Dorr.
Memorials can be given to The Woodlands First Baptist Church.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.forestparkthewoodlands.com for the McConnell family.
