Michael "Mike" Connell

Michael Bruce Connell, of Rapid City, Michigan, lost his battle with lung disease passing away October 20, 2025, at Munson Medical Center. He was 70 years old. Born June 1, 1955, in Windsor, Ontario, Mike was the youngest child of James and Ruth (Phillips) Connell and had “a wonderful childhood,” especially the summers spent at his Grandpa and Grandma Phillip’s cottage on Balsam Lake in Coboconk. Ontario.

Mike enjoyed playing hockey and curling and had been a member of both the Traverse City and Lewiston curling clubs. He was also a member of the senior golf league at Timber Wolf Golf Course. A man of many talents, over the years he worked as a groundskeeper, landscaper, in construction, as a general contractor and lastly, as the owner of the Pooch Palace dog kennel in Rapid City. An unbelievably kind and selfless man, Mike was always willing to help others.

In August 2013, Mike met the love of his life, Mary King, at “The Forks Landing” of the Boardman River while hosting a kayaking trip with the Traverse Area Paddle Club. They began dating that September and soon discovered they were kindred spirits bonding over their love of the outdoors, their shared sarcastic sense of humor and lots of laughter. They enjoyed kayaking, hiking and did day-hikes on numerous trails across the United States and Canada over the past twelve years and had just returned from a month’s long journey through Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Maine. This trip began with a family reunion in Coboconk, that Mike started organizing a couple of years ago. He was so happy that he was able to make it there despite his health problems.

Preceded in death by his parents, aunts, uncles and beloved dog Max, Mike is survived by his brother David Connell and sister Carol (Gary) Eugenio, nieces, nephews, numerous cousins and friends. He also leaves Mary, her children and grandchildren. His strength and determination throughout his illness was inspirational. He will be missed greatly.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to the Salvation Army, the Ronald McDonald House or St. Judes Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. A Celebration of Life will take place in May 2026.

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com