February 1, 2018
William R. Connell, 93; passed peacefully surrounded by family in Summerfield, FL. His journey began on April 9, 1924 at home at 591 Delaware Ave, Syracuse, NY. He was the sixth of seven children, and he was known as Irwin “Ford” Mereau. As a toddler, the children were given over to what is now known as Elmcrest Childrens Center. He found happiness when he was adopted in 1931 by Mabel & Thomas Connell. They provided a loving home on Brampton Rd., Syracuse and he began a new life with a new name. His next moment of fortune happened at 17 when he met the love of his life, Mary Jegier, in Schenectady, NY. They married on Jan. 1, 1944 and purchased their first home in New Haven, NY, where they brought three children into the world. After starting a dry-cleaning business in Oswego, NY, they settled in Fulton, NY; where they raised their children. During their empty nest years, they built a home on Oneida Lake and spent many winters in New Smyrna, FL. They also spent many years camping and traveling the Thousand Islands, Cape Cod, the East Coast and the country. In more recent years, they resided in Hannibal, NY and Summerfield, FL. In 1979, he had the good fortune to locate and reunite with two brothers, Earl “Scotty” Mereau and Clarence Mereau as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews. Bill enjoyed many years reconnecting with them. He always had a library card and a stack of books at his side. He was a lifelong student of American History, Anthropology, and Astronomy. He was conversant with many topics of the world. Bill was a passionate student of the human condition. He believed with religious fervor that it was a privilege to live each day. Bill believed that love and God have to be the basis of the universe. He was a wise and compassionate human being. He was very proud of his family and loved them very much. He had many friends and family who loved and respected him as well. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary, with whom he celebrated their 74th anniversary on Jan. 1st. He is also survived by their three children: William R. Jr. (Carol,) of Liverpool, NY, Thomas M. (Priscilla) of Clayton, NC; and Janet M. Cuyler (Paul T.) of The Villages, FL. He has nine accomplished grandchildren, and also twenty wonderful great grandchildren. Bill was pre-deceased by his grandson: Paul T. Cuyler Jr. (13) in 1983. Services will be private and arranged by Sugar Funeral Home, 224 W. 2nd St. S., Fulton. Burial is in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Fulton, NY. Donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Bill requested that a Celebration of Life be conducted in the Spring so that he can oversee it from above.