John ‘Jack’ Hardaway Connolly was born in Olympia, Wash. He graduated high school from St. Martin’s. He also attended St. Martin’s University and Washington State University.
Jack was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the 562nd Medical Ambulance Company.
Among his many endeavors, he co-owned Shelton Meatpacking Company, was a founder of Romac Industries, and farmed coffee in Guatemala. He was an avid storyteller, an inspired builder of houses and gardens, and a devoted husband and father. He was always up for the next adventure.
He is predeceased by his first wife Lu (Lucille Hemness) and is survived by his wife Tuey Connolly, daughters Debbie Cowden (Mike), Nancy Blum (Joey), Joan Connolly (David Adee); two sisters Jill and Colleen; four grandchildren, Danica, Ruby, Marissa, Sarafina; and one great-grandson Otto.
Although he did not live in the area, he had friends and relatives here. Jack helped out at events at the Sawmill Ballroom Lavender Farm, home of Nancy, Joey and Ruby Blum (Creswell). He visited his daughter Joan Connolly and family (Eugene) when passing through and always was up for a cup of coffee at Blue Valley Bistro.
