Vernon Obituary: James Conner, 76

James Conner, 76, of Vernon, passed away on Sunday, October 4, 2015 at his home after a prolonged illness.

James was born October 6, 1938 in Wilkes Barre, PA. He was raised in New Britain prior to joining the Air Force, after which he decided to join the Army, where he served with distinction for twenty years. He served several tours in Vietnam as a paratrooper and for several years he was assigned to the Jump School as an instructor, which he took great pride in. James’ second career was a police dispatcher for the town of Glastonbury. He enjoyed serving the residents and working with some of the finest people that he had ever had the pleasure of knowing. James also was heavily involved in scouting and athletics, serving as his son’s coach and scoutmaster. One of his proudest moments as a father was seeing his son earn Eagle Scout. After his second retirement, he enjoyed fishing, reading, crossword puzzles and most of all, spending time with his family.

James is survived by his wife of 39 years, Kathleen; his son, Shawn and his wife Amy and their daughter Mackenzie. He is also survived by his brother, Robert and his wife Judy, as well as several cousins, nieces, nephews and his friend of many years, Judy. He was predeceased by his mother, Margaret; step father, William and his sister, Barbara.

Relatives and friends may call at the D’Esopo East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter St., East Hartford for a memorial service on Thursday (October 8) from 4-6 p.m. Interment will be on Friday (October 9) at 10:30 a.m. at the State Veteran’s Cemetery, 316 Bow Lane, Middletown.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Visiting Nurse and Health Services, 8 Keynote Dr., Vernon Rockville, CT 06066 or the Connecticut Rivers Council, BSA, 60 Darlin St., East Hartford, CT 06108.

To share a memory of James with the family, please visit www.desopo.com.