JAMES ROBERT McCONNELL

James Robert McConnell passed away on February 25, 2026, at the age of 87. Born in Trout Creek, Ontario, to Ernest and Rosann McConnell, he was one of sixteen children. He was predeceased by his parents, his thirteen brothers and sisters, his wives Mary Marguerite, May, and Arlene, and his son-in-law George Karchewski. He is lovingly remembered by his daughters Cheryl Karchewski and Deborah Chiarella, and her husband Terry. He is also survived by his sisters Margaret and Ethel. Jim was a proud grandfather to Brandon, Kassandra, Sascha, Max, Madeline, and Olivia. His greatest joy in later years was being a great-grandfather to Bishop, Chloe, and Sage. He built a long and steady career as an Ontario Land Surveyor with the Department of Highways and later as a Survey Technician with Ontario Hydro. His work helped shape the province he called home, and he took pride in doing it well. In his younger years, he enjoyed golfing and curling, but he was perhaps best known for his love of cards. An avid and skilled cribbage player, Jim spent countless hours at the card table, forming lasting friendships and earning a reputation as someone you didn't underestimate in a game. He will be deeply missed by his friends in his Sarnia card circle. Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Monday, March 2, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.