Francis Martin Connolly

Francis Martin Connolly passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on June 16, 2012 in the presence of His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with his family gathered by his bedside.

Francis was born May 17, 1918 in Eagleville, California to Edward M. and Viola (Marshall) Connolly. He graduated from Cedarville High School and enlisted in the US Navy to serve his country in the Pacific arena as a Torpedoman’s Mate 1st Class during WWII. After his honorable discharge Francis served in the Civil Service as a carpenter for 30 years.

While stationed at Astoria, Oregon Francis met and married Hilda K. Malen, the love of his life, on July 10, 1943. Fran and Hilda had four daughters, Becky, Lindy, Jen & Cindy. The family moved to Mountlake Terrace in 1961. Fran enjoyed his family. He also enjoyed woodworking, hunting and fishing. He and Hilda enjoyed walking, golfing, bowling and travelling together. Fran was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lynnwood since 1961. He served alongside Hilda volunteering in various community service projects through the Telephone Pioneers.

His survivors include his wife, Hilda, and daughters Rebecca Brager of Freeland, WA, Melinda (& Bill) Benjamin of Clinton, WA, Jennifer (& Wayne) Weimer of Langley, WA, and Cynthia (& Bill) Nims, Tacoma, WA. He also leaves behind sixteen treasured grandchildren, thirty great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Francis is preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Viola Connolly and three siblings, Rose Pinon, William Connolly and Patrick Connolly.

A family graveside service will be held June 25, 10:00 AM at Acacia Memorial Park. A memorial service will be at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lynnwood June 25 at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity Lutheran Church designated for the Living Waters. The money will go to develop clean water wells in third world countries. Alternately donations can be indicated for the quilting group through Trinity. Fran had a special interest in both of these service projects.

Irish Blessing

May the road rise up

to meet you.

May the wind be always

at your back.

May the sun shine warm

upon your face,

and the rains fall soft

upon your fields,

and until we meet again,

may God hold you in the

palm of his hand.