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Harry J. ‘Pete’ McConnell

April 1, 1933 - June 18, 2017

Harry J. “Pete” McConnell, 84, Altoona, died peacefully on Sunday evening at Presbyterian Village at Hollidaysburg.

He was born in Ashville, son of the late Richard and Philomena “Minnie” (Rice) McConnell. On Feb. 23, 1955, he married Shirley A. McCloskey, and she predeceased him on June 7, 2016.

Surviving are two sons: Richard J. McConnell and wife, Pam, and Ronald J. McConnell and wife, Lauren, all of Altoona; three grandchildren: Tyler J., Benjamin D. and Fiona A. McConnell; and a sister, Hazel Culley.

He was preceded in death by two brothers: Warren and Royden McConnell; and seven sisters: Lucille Stevenson, Vesta McMullen, Betty Mulhern, Natoma Bulow, Mildred Lewis, Sylvia Hartman and Bernice Waksmonski.

Pete was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War, having served from 1953-55. He retired from the printing department of Butterick Inc. after 43 years of service. He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Altoona.

He was a true gentleman, always loving and caring to his wife, Shirley, with whom he shared 61 years of marriage. He was known to many as “Mr. Nice Guy,” always with a kind and caring demeanor willing to lend a hand or help someone in need. He was a true father figure to both Richard and Ron, a pillar of quiet strength, courage, wisdom and optimism. He never complained, no matter what happened. He loved all aspects of life, especially going to hunting camp with family and friends and fishing with his grandson, Ben, on the boat at Glendale. Pete was probably best known for his love of golf, being a longtime member of Sylvan Hills Country Club, where he placed in the club championship many years. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him simply as a great all-around guy. He lived a full life.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 21, 2017, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Altoona. Committal will be at Calvary Cemetery, Altoona. Arrangements are by E. Merrill Smith Funeral Home Inc., 2309 Broad Ave., Altoona.

In remembrance of Pete, those wishing to make a donation may do so to Home Nursing Agency Family Hospice, 201 Chestnut Ave., Altoona, PA 16601, or to Presbyterian Village at Hollidaysburg, 220 Newry St., Hollidaysburg, PA 16648.

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