"Tom" Clifton Thomas Connell

Obituary Tom left this earth peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on August 21,2016. He was born October 17, 1918 to the late Frank and Clara Connell in the small New England town, Somersville, Connecticut, where he was also raised and participated & enjoyed all sports. During WWII he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was a flight instructor and fighter pilot in the Pacific. While stationed in lwo Jima he flew the P47 and PS l Mustangs on combat missions over Japan. He separated as a Captain in the Air Force and later in life shared many of his war stories while serving our country. Upon returning from WWII he excelled playing professional baseball for the International Silver Company-Industrial League for the Cleveland Indians. On May 24, 1947 Tom married Ruth Stevenson Carroll in Wallingford, Connecticut after meeting at International Silver. While Tom was a territory Sales Representative, he and Ruth began their journey west to reside in Fremont, Nebraska. He then became employed with the George A. Hormel Company and it was while working for Hormel that they were very lucky to be transferred to Colorado. Tom is survived by his loving wife Ruth, of 69 years; his children, Thomas Connell, Corey Kurish, Julie (Bryan) Flood, Dede (Allen) Benning; grandchildren, Kelly (Davis) Isinger, Andy Connell, Johnny Kurish, Ben Kurish, Wesley Flood, Spencer Flood, Todd Murphy, Holly (Chad) Owens, Brian (Kelli) Benning, Brad (Kelly) Benning and Jackie (Kevin) Campbell; and great grandchildren, Mason, Campbell and Murphy Owens, Madeline lsinger. Tom loved the game of GOLF and played with his wonderful friends for over 80 years. The Connell's joined the Colorado Springs Country Club in 1962 and have remained members all these years. During his golf career he had five holes in ones, was Senior Club Champion in 1983 and member of Colorado Senior Golfer's Association. He passed his love for golf on to his next generation - his son Tom, long time professional at the Denver Country Club and grandsons Todd Murphy and Andy Connell both teaching and touring professionals. Over the span of his life there are countless memories of kindness, fun and laughter. The loss of his warm affection, witty personality and loving involvement with family and friends will be missed beyond words. WE ALL KNOW that he is at peace and is now 'operating at 104%.' A private family Memorial service has been planned, and there wil be a Celebration of his life for his family and friends will be held. In lieu of flowers please give donations to Junior Golf, http://www.juniorgolfcolorado.org/, or the Charity of your choice. Services Services are to be announced