James "Frank" McConnell

Jim “Frank” McConnell, age 58, peacefully left his place on Earth, Easter morning, April 5, 2026, taking his mother’s hand who, no doubt, was happy to have him join her for a heavenly Easter service. Born in Berlin, WI, Jim was a student at St. Michael’s and St. Joe’s Catholic Schools, and attended Berlin High School. Only one year younger than his brother, Jerry, the two were inseperable, helping each other get into, and out of, trouble. While he picked on his younger sisters, his soft heart made room for sister Karen during middle of the night thunderstorms. Jim spent countless hours together with siblings, friends, and cousins in the Kitten Hole. As a young adult he was brought into the family business, now FLASH, learning how to drive truck from his father, Pat. He drove truck for several years, and also worked as a dispatcher and terminal manager for the waste division, before running under his own authority, McConnell Trucking. He proudly drove his beautiful Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks for many years, hauling locally and over-the-road as an owner operator with his favorite co-pilots, Mugzy and Shaney. Jim became "Frank" thanks to his fellow drivers. He was known for his easy-going nature and kind spirit. He lived life simply and fully, never one for confrontation and always one to go with the flow. He had a way of making people feel comfortable, often with his unmistakable, contagious shoulder-shaking chuckle that could lift anyone’s spirits. He gave the best hugs, delivered inappropriate remarks with his signature grin, and could charm anyone with his mischievously blue eyes. He found his greatest joy in time spent with family and friends—whether gathered together for a meal or sharing stories over a cocktail. He spent many weekends with his brother, Jerry, in Hurley, and riding his Harley with friends. He’d never turn down a chance to dance to The Rodeo Song, laughing until tears filled his eyes. Those moments, filled with so much laughter and connection, were where Frank felt most at home and truly content. Frank is survived by his father, Pat McConnell; his children, Heather McConnell, Katie (Ben) Larson, and Clifton (Corinne) McConnell; and his cherished grandchildren, Kearston, Emily, Maddie, Camden, Kade, Brinley, Brody, and Waylon. He is also survived by his siblings, Jerry (Mary Kramer) McConnell, Karen McConnell, Patti (Chris) Beuthin, and Mandi (Noah) Hinrichs, and many nieices and nephews. Frank shared many years with his partner, Christa Erdmann. He is further remembered by Tammy McConnell, and many extended family members and dear friends who will deeply miss his presence. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Lynn McConnell, whom he was greatly missing. He was also preceded in death by his Grandparents, Cliff and Dorothy (Inda) Chier and Charlie and Monnine (Taugher) McConnell. We trust he was welcomed to Heaven by them, along with aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends that had gone before him. Frank will be remembered for his gentle nature and the laughter he so freely shared. He was a lover. His absence will be felt deeply, but his memory will live on in the stories, smiles, and moments he gave to all who knew him. A sincere Thank You to the exceptional care team at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center - Neenah for taking such wonderful care of our father, brother, grandpa, and son during his final days.

James "Frank" McConnell

September 28, 1967 - April 5, 2026