Lynn Thomas McConnell

Lynn Thomas McConnell went to be with his Lord on March 27, 2026. Born July 26, 1938 in Lansing, Michigan. He was the son of the late Lawren Berkeley and the late Maxine Katherine (Brugh) McConnell of Lansing, Michigan.

Lynn graduated from Grand Ledge High School where he met the love of his life, Emmalene (Bass) McConnell. Lynn attended Michigan State University and graduated, receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, from the University of Detroit. He served in the United States Army from 1959 – 1962 spending most of his time in Germany where he and Emmalene had their daughter, Shannon (McConnell) Venable and where his son, Dean McConnell was conceived before they returned State-side.

Anyone who knew Lynn knew he was very talented musically. He played in the high school band as well as in the Michigan State marching band with a full musical scholarship. He continued on after moving to Hastings and played in the Hastings City Band for many years, the Thornapple Wind Band and the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra, which was one of his most cherished experiences.

He was known as a community leader with his work leading the United Way and being part of the leadership teams for the YMCA, Hastings Rotary Club, the Grand Lodge Free & Accepted Masons of Michigan and the First Presbyterian Church.

What many may not know about Lynn is his interest in trying new and some adventurous things. At a young age (17 years), he received his private pilot license and flew planes. In his late 30’s, he learned to scuba dive and owned and road motorcycles during his youth. He loved to tell the story of his trip West with his father - loving riding his Indian bike.

Lynn loved Michigan State (MSU) sports teams. He not only attended several games and bowl games over the years, but combined with his musical talent, was able to march with the MSU alumni band at some football games and played in the pep band for some of the MSU women’s basketball games.

As a father, Lynn was a sensitive, caring, yet strong person. He helped out with caring for his children from the beginning including changing his daughter’s diapers when “real men” did not do that.

Although he could be serious, he would rather be funny and often brought smiles and uncontrollable laughter to his family, friends and the people who cared for him. His stories about his life and life situations were almost notoriously humorous for all who knew him well. Lynn never stopped learning and was sharp witted as he loved learning about history and was an avid reader of fiction and nonfictional books about the World Wars and conspiracy theories. He also absolutely enjoyed putting together jigsaw puzzles.

He is survived by his wife, Emmalene (Bass) McConnell; his brothers, Bruce (Bobi) McConnell and Todd (Marti) McConnell; his sister-in-law, Ann (Bass) Jones; his daughter, Shannon (Edward) Venable, and son, Dean (Karen) McConnell; his grandchildren, Joshua (Vicky) Killinger, Hunter (Rachel) Venable, Sydney McConnell, and Blake McConnell; his great grandchildren, Isla Killinger and Helena Killinger; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life is planned for May 2026, details coming soon. In lieu of flowers, Please make donations to the Barry Community Foundation.