Bernard passed away peacefully after a short illness at the age of 89. He is predeceased by his parents (Bryan and Catherine Connelly) and his 9 siblings.
Bernard was the beloved husband of Marlene Connelly (née Morrison) for over 55 years, was the proud father of Kathleen (Allan), Sean (Leigh Ann), Brendan (Andrea), and even prouder grandfather of Jasmine (Kevin), Morgan (Andrew), Kaelin, Finn and Izzy.
Bernard (Bernie) was born in Glasgow Scotland and grew up in a wartime era that built a formidable resilience in him. Bernard apprenticed as a textile engraver with the British Silk and Dye Company and later (1957) moved to Canada. Bernard worked at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce as a pressman in Montreal and then moved to Ottawa to join the Royal Canadian Engineers (RCE) of the Canadian Armed Forces. It was in Ottawa that he met his beloved Marlene from Cornwall Ontario.
Bernard took on roles of increasing responsibility within the RCE, eventually becoming the Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) until he was commissioned as Captain and became Chief Instructor at the school of military mapping. He was proud of this work and retired in 1989.
Bernard was an avid alpine and cross-country skier, runner and golfer. His wide smile with a twinkle of fun in his eyes, propensity to laugh and to sing, and occasional yielder of the 'Connelly Claw' endeared him to others. He will be dearly missed by family, neighbours (lifelong friends), as well fellow runners, skiers and Hylands golf club staff and members.
Bernard/Bernie/Ben/Dad/Papa/Grandpa/Uncle/Mr.C often said "He who dares, wins." He dared, we all won, and now he will be dearly missed. The family would like to thank Dr. Murley for her kindness and care.
Friends may pay respects on Monday, February 20th. Visitation begins at 12:00pm with a service at 1pm, reception to follow at Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave.
, Ottawa www.beechwoodottawa.ca
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ottawa YMCA.
Digital Guestbook
Susan Geraldine Taylor
Emily Graves
Dear Kathleen, you are in my thoughts .... to lose a loved one leaves a void, and a sadness so profound ... I offer you my sincerest condolences ... not just in this time of sorrow, but henceforth ... take care ...
Emily Graves
AUGUSTUS-JOHN TAYLOR
My deepest condolences to the Connelly family. May Bernard rest in peace. My thoughts are with you all. A.J. Taylor
George & Martina Acres
Marlene and family.
We are very sorry for your great loss.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Monique Catizzone
My most sincere condolences to youMarlene and family.
Kathryn Wheeler
Kathleen, so very sorry for your loss. Sending my sincere condolences to you and your family at this time. You always spoke so fondly and proudly of your Dad. May he rest in peace.
Take care,
Kathryn
Dan Libby
RIP Bernie. I bet you are already running marathons in heaven. Condolences to Marlene family and friends. He will be missed.
Jane conlin
To Marlene and Family..
My condolences.
I am so sorry to hear this news. Bernard was a kind gentle man, always with a ready pleasant smile.
Jeff Lamarche
I'm sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family.
Tammy McCollum
Deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss. Sending you the strength and courage you need to face the days ahead without him.
To Sean and the whole Connelly Family, so sorry for your great loss. with love