John “Skip” Richard McConnell, 46
Skip passed away at 6:24 p.m. Sunday, July 15, at Mercy Hospital Springfield from complications of heart surgery. He was surrounded by some of his very best friends when he left this life behind.
Skip was born August 20, 1971 in Springfield, Mo. He is survived by his father, Richard McConnell and his wife Tina, and two brothers, Christopher Lee and his wife Cat, and Garland McConnell. He was preceded in death by his loving mother Wanda (Farless) Bolton, as well as his paternal and maternal grandparents.
Skip was a graduate of Hillcrest High School Class of ’89. He went on to be a very talented custom painter in the auto industry and loved to paint until the very end. Skip was married to his high school sweetheart Chandra Hayter December 12, 1997. They were married 13 years and remained close friends. Skip also left behind his girlfriend of 5 years, Crystal Bass, his two dogs B.J & C.J., and hundreds of friends who will forever miss him.
Skip loved his family, his friends, his pets, everyone's kids, canoeing and fast motorcycles. He was always a fun-loving kid at heart and made everyone around him laugh.
Following cremation, according to Skip’s wishes, a celebration of his life is planned for Friday, Aug. 3, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Eagles Lodge, 603 W. Farm Road 182, Springfield (1 block west of Campbell on Plainview). All of those who loved Skip are invited to join the celebration to share memories and lots of laughter in his honor.