McConnell, John Joseph "JJ", unexpectedly passed away on his 60th birthday, October 31. He was born in Greenport, NY in 1950. JJ began a career in the marine industry in his late teens at Al Groves Boat Sales in Freeport, NY. JJ moved to Ft. Lauderdale in 1979 and continued his profession in the marine trade as a successful yacht broker with Woods & Oviatt. He then became a partner in the prestigious firm of Gillman Yachts of Fort Lauderdale in 2001 and is the former president of the Marine Industry Association of South Florida. He is survived by his wife, Patty McConnell; and son Kyle; along with his parents Bill and Lillian Riley; brother Bill Jr.; several aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as many friends and colleagues. JJ, Patty, and Kyle enjoyed many Bahamian experiences aboard the HARRY CARRIER. A memorial service will be held at Fred Hunter's Funeral Home, 718 S Federal Highway, Ft Lauderdale, November 5, 2010 from 4 to 6 p.m. Donations can kindly be made to the Kyle McConnell Education Fund c/o Gillman Yachts of Fort Lauderdale, Inc. 1510 SE 17th St, Suite 300, Ft Lauderdale, FL 33316.
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