Donald Eugene Connors

He was born on February 2, 1930 (Groundhog’s Day - as he liked to remind everyone when they asked his birthdate) in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Edmond and Sarah (Smith) Connors. Both preceded him death.

Don lettered in track and basketball at North Side High School. His athleticism helped him to be asked to play softball and basketball while in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He first enlisted in the U.S. Marine Reserve but then decided to switch to the Air Force. He was stationed in Bermuda and spent some time in the Azores where he was a Technical Sergeant.

After returning to Fort Wayne, he worked for Eckrich. He liked to let you know he was the “Weenie Man” who drove the Eckrich hot dog truck. He received a degree in Finance from International Business School in Fort Wayne. It was there he met Ann C. (Franks) Connors, his wife of 64 years. She preceded him in death in October 2019.

He is survived by their two beloved children: Rick (Maureen) E. Connors of Grabill, IN and Heidi A. Connors of Carmel, IN. They enjoyed their four grandchildren: Meghan (Bill) Mesing, Katlyn (Byron) Arrivillaga, Shannon (Braylon) Gagnon and Keegan Connors. The family is growing and now includes six great- grandkids who called him “Gramps.” They are: Liam, Savannah, Daniel (Freddy, as Don called him) and Olivia Mesing and Bronson and Evelyn (Evie) Arrivillaga. He is also survived by his Furbaby Muffy. There are many cousins, nieces and nephews on both the Franks and Connors sides of the family that were a meaningful part of his life.

Don and Ann lived their married life in Northern Indiana – first in Fort Wayne, then Mishawaka but the majority in South Bend. Don was transferred to Mishawaka from Fort Wayne with G.M.A.C (General Motors Finance Corporation). He retired after 30+ years of service with the company at 56. He spent his retirement years babysitting for his grandkids, working for Ann at the Clay Township Assessors Office, delivering flowers for local florists, and working the voting polls during elections throughout the years.

Don and Ann were part of the Founders Group who started Clay United Methodist Church in South Bend. He was an avid bowler and softball player and member of the following organizations: South Bend Turners, Elks, VFW, and Clay United Methodist Church. He also liked to play golf both in Indiana and Michigan. He was also a big fan of the Chicago White Sox and Purdue University football and basketball. He enjoyed attending games as well as watching them on TV or listening to them on the radio with family. He even enjoyed a White Sox game in the background on TV during his last days.

His sense of humor and helpfulness will be missed. He is now with his beloved Ann, parents, many other loved relatives, and special pets.

An Open House to Celebrate Don’s Life will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at the Acme by Full Circle located at 1105 E. State Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN. Stop by anytime from 4:30PM – 7:30PM.

In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to either of the following: Humane Society of Saint Joseph County or South Bend Elks Lodge #235.