Joseph Patrick Connolly

Joseph Patrick Connolly Passed away on March 26, 2009 in Richmond, CA. He is survived by his loving wife, Florence, to whom he was married for 62 years. He also leaves behind loving children Kathleen Connolly Perkins, Karen Connolly Smith, and Joseph Patrick Connolly III. Grandchildren: David and Christopher Perkins, Coleman and Elisa Connolly, Amy Wright and Great-Grandson Derek Wood. His brother Jack, and wife Virginia, his cousin Bernard Cummins and wife Myra and sister-in-law Ynez Boiteux. Joe was predeceased by sisters Agnes and Rita Connolly. Joe was born in Butte, MT, to Joseph P. Connolly Sr. and Anna Sullivan. He was raised in Oakland, CA, and proud of his Irish heritage. Joe enlisted in the Coast Guard before World War II was declared. He then attended Northwestern University in Officers' Training and served as a lieutenant on a Navy transport ship serving in the South Pacific Islands. After the war he received orders to proceed to Yokohama, Japan, and then returned to the United States where he was honorably discharged. Thereafter, he attended University of San Francisco Law School and practiced law in Contra Costa County for 50 years. Joe enjoyed his summers at his cabin with family and friends in Summer Home Park on the Russian River. Joe was a longtime member of St. David of Wales Catholic Church and West Contra Costa County Serra Club. Family and friends are invited to attend Visitation from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at the Civic Center Chapel of Wilson & Kratzer Mortuaries, 455 - 24th Street, Richmond. Funeral Mass 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at St. David of Wales Catholic Church, 5641 Esmond Avenue, Richmond. Committal will follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery, 2560 Church Lane, San Pablo.

03/31/09 Submitted by: James Demerin

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