Bernard 'Bernie' Connelly

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.