James F. Connelly

James F. ˜Jim' Connelly died November 26, 2012 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was 80 years old.He was born July 12, 1932 in Youngstown, Ohio to James P. and Pauline (Davis) Connelly. His family moved to Syracuse, NY. He graduated from Syracuse University and was a member of the University rowing team.On June 19, 1954 he married Joan M. Wilson in Syracuse. She preceded him in death on April 21, 1997.Jim enjoyed a 32 year career with IBM as a chemical engineer beginning in 1959. He lived in many locations settling in Longmont in 1974 and retiring in 1991.He married Carole McManus on September 6, 1999 at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Longmont. Jim was an avid skier and a member of the Over the Hill Gang at Copper Mountain, continuing to ski until he was 76. He was an IFR rated private pilot and flew many small aircraft. While still in New Jersey he was secretary and president of a flyers' club. He enjoyed hiking, biking, opera and cooking. Jim also possessed significant building skills. In addition to many personal and family remodeling and construction projects, he built a second residence in Dillon, Colorado.In addition to his first wife Joan, he was preceded in death by his parents and one sister Dorothy Mowins.Jim is survived by his wife Carole McManus of Longmont, two daughters Karen Connelly and Joanne P. Connelly-Meester (Dan) both of Longmont and one son James S. Connelly of Lubbock, Texas; two step-daughters Betsy Winn (Brian) and Megan Kramer (Kevin); seven grandchildren John and Stefanie Nowak, Elisabeth Vela (Thomas), Kevin, Brigid and Matthew Winn, Maxine Connelly, and Kyle, Shea and Grace Kramer, five great grandchildren Braydon, Alexis, Matthew, Landon and Harlow; brother Paul Connelly and sister Pat Reagan.Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, December 1, 2012, at the Ahlberg Funeral Chapel. Cremation at Ahlberg Funeral Chapel and Crematory. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Boulder County. A reception will follow at the Callahan House, 312 Terry St. Visit www.ahlbergfuneralchapel.com to share condolences.