James J. Connor, of Holland, PA died after a long and courageous battle with Pancreatic cancer on Wednesday, February 8, 2012, at his home surrounded by his family. He was 72.
He was the beloved husband of 45 years to Sheila McNamee Connor.
Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late John and Florence Connor (nee Dowling) and brother of the late Jack Connor and Betty Boyle.
Jim grew up in Philadelphia, went to St. Helena’s grade school and was a 1958 graduate of Northeast Catholic High School for Boys. After graduating, he joined the IBEW, Local 98, starting as an apprentice, working his way up to a journeyman electrician, and as a union electrician before joining Williard Inc. as a project executive. For over 30 years he worked with Williard overseeing and managing projects throughout the Philadelphia area before retiring in 2004.
Jim was always on the go, not just for work, but also with his family. He was an active member of St. Bede the Venerable Church, Holland where he served on many committees including, CYO coach, board member and grounds keeper. He dedicated his time to his children who played on the basketball, soccer and track teams while they were there and even after they graduated. He enjoyed spending time with his family and travelling with his wife and friends. His outgoing personality and love for his family and friends will always be remembered.
In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by his children Maureen Nix and her husband Danny of New York, NY, Kathleen Vargas and her husband Mauricio of Ottawa, Canada, and Jim Connor and his wife Becky of Doylestown, PA his 3 sisters, Mary Daisley of Drexel Hill, PA, Florence Chmelko of Baltimore, MD, and Pat Gibbons of Wilmington, DE, his 8 grandchildren; Aidan, Owen, Declan, Cavan, Sean, Jacqueline, Danny and Liam. He is also survived by his best friend from first grade Bill Cummings and his wife Nancy, who brought love, caring and fun to this journey.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewings on Sunday, February 12, 2012 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at the Joseph A. Fluehr III Funeral Home, 800 Newtown Richboro Rd. (at Holland Rd.) Richboro and on Monday, February 13, 2012 at St. Bede the Venerable Church, 1071 Holland Road, Holland, PA 18966, from 8:30am until his Funeral Mass 10:00 am. Interment will be in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Cheltenham, PA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to St. Bede the Venerable Capital Campaign Fund, at the above address or to the Abramson Cancer Center Development Office, 3535 Market St., Suite 750, Phila, PA 19104, Attn: Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania.