Vincent H. “Vince” McConnell, 85, of Colorado Springs, Colo. died peacefully April 16, 2025.  He was born June 12, 1939 in Wallace. 

He graduated from Wallace High School in 1957 and earned his bachelor’s degree in teaching from Chadron State College in 1961.  

After teaching school and coaching sports in Hyannis and Lincoln, Vince sold real estate, eventually becoming a general contractor in Lincoln.  Vince moved to Colorado Springs in 1984 and continued a successful career as a general contractor.  There wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix, repurpose, or build.  He loved to share his craft with everyone and made many friends along the way.

Vince was an avid hunter.  He enjoyed pheasant hunting near Wallace; and later deer in Colorado.  In his later years, his favorite pastime was fishing with his friends at 11-Mile Reservoir.  He had a keen interest in genealogy.  He loved to cook and was always pouring over magazines for new recipes.

Vince’s greatest joy was being a father and grandfather.  While he found success in his work and joy in his hobbies, his greatest fulfillment—his deepest joy—came from his family. His love was evident in every laugh shared, every lesson taught, and every moment spent simply being together.  His stories, values, and laughter will echo in our memories forever.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Freeman and Virginia McConnell; a brother, Clark McConnell; and a sister, Shirley (Aylward).

He is survived by his daughters, Annette (Joe) Kopacz of Monument, Colo.; Michelle (John) Barrette of Monument, Colo.; seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; a brother, Gary (Helen) McConnell of Wallace; and many nieces and nephews, each of whom carries a part of his spirit forward. 

Dad, we will miss your voice, your hugs, and your “I love you” every time you said goodbye. We will never forget the way you made us feel seen and loved.

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