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ROBERT A. MCCONNELL

Presque Isle, Mich.

Robert A. McConnell, 87, of Presque Isle, our kind, easy going, and fun loving dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, and most loyal friend passed away on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, at Mid Michigan Medical Center-Midland. Bob was born in Warren on Nov. 3, 1929, to late Paul and Margaret (Doerr) McConnell. He graduated from Warren High School and was united in marriage to the former Lois McTavish in the Village of Warren. Bob was a proud U.S. Navy veteran, serving during the Korean Conflict. An electrician by trade, Bob was known for his handy skills. He was a firefighter for the village of Warren, a lifetime member of the Free Masons, a volunteer for the East Grand Lake Fire Department, and was formerly employed by Lafarge Corporation (Stoneport). Bob and Lois started raising their family in Fraser and later moved to Grand Lake in 1975 where they owned and operated the Fireside Inn on Grand Lake. Bob had many hobbies throughout life and was most known for hosting his wonderful poker nights.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Terry McConnell (special friend, Leslie Kinsinger), Lori (Robert) VanSchoten, Gary (Marsha) McConnell, and Alan (Jamie) McConnell; grandchildren, Hunter, Kalan, and Drew McConnell; Melissa, Christy, and Megan VanSchoten; and brother, Paul McConnell. Bob’s memory will live on in the hearts of the many teenagers of Fireside past and present who will miss seeing him at his front counter stool, along with the the Pagels, Campbell, Benson, and Vandenberge families, many nieces, nephews, and the many guests of Fireside who over the years became Bob’s second family.

A memorial ceremony will be held at a later date. Final arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Skorupski Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 955 N. Pine Rd., Hampton Twp. Memorial contributions may be directed to East Grand Lake Fire Department or the Presque Isle Firework Fund. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.skorupskis.com.