Laurie Frank Mac McConnell

July 23, 1936 - November 18, 2007

Obituary

Laurie F. “Mac” McCONNELL

Born in Seattle 71 years ago, Laurie suddenly left us November 18th.

Laurie has a long list of accomplishments; however, Laurie will best be remembered as the stalwart Patriarch of 6 children, 10 grandchildren, and 3 great-grand children. He believed in tough love and teaching in preparing his children—in life—to take care of themselves and their own families.

To his family, he is remembered in many ways, as dedicated, caring, strong willed, compassionate, loyal, modest, and for his love of his dogs, Kama deceased and Saffi.

To colleagues, he is remembered as dedicated, loyal, a person who always “has your back,” and for his intensity, meaning he has only one speed—high—with no off switch. Also remembered, is his long record of service with the Seattle School District, the State of Washington, the city of Federal Way, and the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department.

To friends, he is remembered as candid he said what he thought, and meant what he said, reliable, compassionate, modest, and fun with an unfettered sense of humor. And, how his love for his dogs helped soften his outlook on life.

To his students, he is remembered as tough, dedicated, fair, reliable, fun, and thorough.

To the community, he is remembered as a strong man and an active volunteer that is committed, involved, and always available in times of need.

Laurie had many accomplishments during his lifetime, serving as an Electrician’s Mate in the US Navy and working for 50 years in the electrical industry.

As a student, he earned 10 certificates and licenses in the electrical field from the US Navy, four colleges, four associations, and the State of Washington.

As a teacher, he taught Electrical Theory and Code at two colleges and four associations.

As a volunteer, he served as President, Field Training Officer, and Officer in the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department Reserve Association earning awards such as Officer of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.

As a worker in the electrical field, he held titles such as Electrician, Electrical Inspector, President, Administrator, and Plans Examiner.

As an athlete, he held a 5th degree Black Belt and was a master instructor in Jujutsu.

He is survived by Jean, his wife and Soul mate of 23 years; his children Bonnie Dave Krueger, Sherry Terry Baker, Laurel McConnell-Repp, Frank Elise McConnell, Katerina Shaun Lummus and Carl Pullen; his grandchildren, Jeremy, Joshua, Jennifer, Kate, Nicole, Briana, Cathryn, Cassidy, Casey and Mia; and his great-grandchildren, Alyssa, Michael, and Tristin.

Laurie, you inspired and touched us in a special way that made each of our lives better and more productive.

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest

16 Comments
oldest
newest most voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Laine and Mary Kate McGee
Laine and Mary Kate McGee
4 years ago

We can’t think of a more wonderful person than Mac. Having worked with him for almost 8 years we both found him to be intelligent, resourceful and generous with his time and resources. He was just a great person to know. We know he will be missed terribly not only by his family but all of us who knew him. We are grateful for the opportunity to extend our sincerest condolences at the loss of this wonderful man and wish the family strength and unity as they deal with his passing.

Kathy McClung
Kathy McClung
4 years ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mac for many years at the City of Federal Way. He took his job seriously and was one of the hardest workers we ever had. He did have his fun side though. We had a Gilligans Island party at our lake house and Mac came dressed as Gilligan. He also fully participated in a “surprise” wedding reception for Betty Cruz and helped decorate her truck and danced with her during the “reception” in the council chambers. The world will miss his dedicated and fun spirit. My condolences to Jeanne and the family.

Kathy McClung

Heinz & Joella
Heinz & Joella
4 years ago

Jean, we are so grateful that you so generously shared Laurie with all his friends and with his volunteer duties. He was a friend that personifies the true meaning of the word. We have been blessed by his friendship and he will always be in our hearts. We are holding you and the family in our thoughts and prayers and want you to know you too will always be a part of us. May God fill your heart with beautiful memories to bring you Peace and Joy in all your thoughts of Laurie. Much Love, Heinz & Joella

Terry & Karen Wissinger
Terry & Karen Wissinger
4 years ago

We are so sorry that the time we knew Laurie and became such good friends was so short. He added so much to our lives with his love of Saffie and Jean. We will always remember his last show, with him sitting at ring side and Clover sitting in his lap, both so content. We are sure that he will always have a dog in his lap and Jean by his side and a glass of wine in his hand. Our thoughts are with you forever.

Greg Covlin
Greg Covlin
4 years ago
Cassidy and Casey Repp
Cassidy and Casey Repp
4 years ago

Some of my best memories in life are of times with my grandpa. I miss him terribly and it hurts me that he had to go. – Casey

Fred Clark
Fred Clark
4 years ago

It was a pleasure to work with Laurie in the reserve program, even though he was a “Bonney Lake” guy.

Willie Hill
Willie Hill
4 years ago

Mac was one of the most dedicated employees I have had the pleasure of ever working with. He was a true leader in all senses. I am very honored to have known Mac for the three short years he has worked for me. Our company,the contractors he serviced daily and the entire electrical profession will miss him greatly.

My prayers are with you Mac.

Lance Eriksen & Family
Lance Eriksen & Family
4 years ago

I always found him to be a man of great stature, almost bigger than life as I met him through the martial arts. As I got to know him, I was able to see how big of a heart he actually had behind that strong exterior and I am glad that I was able to get to know him. He will be remembered as a hard working, loving, honorable man who will be missed by all of us whose lives he touched. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Rex & Teri Reese
Rex & Teri Reese
4 years ago

Dear Jean & Family, Rex has known Laurie for many years, you have been the light of his life and a good friend & wife. We wish you the best in your life but always remember he will always be with you. Love Rex & Teri

Patricia Zale-Pullen
Patricia Zale-Pullen
4 years ago

Jeannie:

Words cannot express the sorrow I feel, for you and your family at the loss of Laurie. The love you shared will always be there,and so will he…

Pattie Pullen

Krista and DominicTroy Boggess

Peggy Wright
Peggy Wright
4 years ago

To the Family and Friends of Mac..

I worked with Mac at the City of Federal Way and always enjoyed his pleasant personality and engaging smile. He was a positive influence to his co-workers. My sincere condolences to you in this great loss.

The Schow Family
The Schow Family
4 years ago

We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Laurie. We have really enjoyed knowing him over the years. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this tough time.

Paul Harper
Paul Harper
4 years ago

Mac was my first long term Partner when I became a reserve deputy for the Pierce County Sheriffs depatment. He always had the coffee pot set so when we were ready we could stop by his house where Genie always had the fresh hot cookies ready, “Mac loved his cookies.” Mac was a very special friend and will be missed by so many people that he touch, ” I know I will.” Mac, I know we all have another angel watching over us. Have the coffee ready when I get there. Paul

Larry Ketchum
Larry Ketchum
4 years ago
Mary Gianelli
Mary Gianelli
4 years ago

Mac was our interim electrical inspector for vacation relief in the City of Burien. He had the refreshing quality of being a solid, no-nonsense, loyal type of guy who let you know where you stood with him. No surprises.

For having a relatively small stature, he packed an amazing punch into his inspections — no one dared argue with him when he issued correction notices.

We were all shocked to hear of his passing. He will definitely be a hard act to follow.