Douglas Jon Connell

Doug Connell, age 73, passed away peacefully in his sleep at Hospice of the Valley in Mesa, Arizona on March 26, 2021. He was born on May 23, 1947 in Bellingham, Washington to Roy and Onda Connell. At the age of 19, Doug proudly served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS ORISKANY and completed several tours in Vietnam. After his military service, he returned to his hometown. Doug worked for the City of Bellingham for 28 years. Starting as a Utility Worker in the Street Division and in his last nine years as a supervisor in charge of the field crews. Doug retired in 1999 and had the gift of enjoying over 20 years of retirement, spending time as a “snowbird” wintering in Arizona and spending spring and summers in Washington. He was an accomplished golfer, an avid fisherman, hunter, craftsman, outdoorsman, a character, masterful cook and BBQ extraordinaire and friend. He loved spending time outdoors, and as his friends and family could tell you, anytime spent with Doug was an adventure, and there was always a good laugh and a story to be told. He was preceded in death by his parents, and grandson Owen. Doug is survived by his loving partner Gloria Lere, brother Ron (Donna) Connell, children Eric (Shanine) Connell, Heather Connell, Kimberly (Justin) DeFries, and Chris Connell, six grandchildren, and many relatives and friends. A celebration of life will be held at the Squalicum Boathouse, 2600 S. Harbor Loop, on Saturday, May 15th at 11:00am. A livestream of the service will be available at www.westfordfuneralhome.com .