Michael John McConnell

Michael “Harpo” John McConnell passed away peacefully on Monday, June 30th at his home in Ivins, Utah after a courageous battle with cancer. Mike was surrounded by his loving family as he returned home. Mike was born on July 21, 1950, in Fullerton, California to parents Hubert and Dell McConnell. Mike also has a sister Sharon Kathleen, “Corky” Wohlers, and a brother Patrick Michael McConnell who preceded him in death. Mike grew up in Fullerton, graduating from Troy High School in the class of 1968. It was there, in his typing class, that he met his wife of 52 years, Dana Lou Rodgers. During those 52 years, Mike and Dana were blessed with three children: Ryan Cascade” Cass” McConnell, Jaime Lou Christensen, and Kelly Michael McConnell. It wasn’t long before there were marriages: Cass to Lori Lowder, Jaime to Lael Christensen and Kelly to Karnell Black. He and Dana also became proud grandparents of Eli Lowder McConnell, River Lael Christensen, Samuel Cascade McConnell, Kai Hyrum Christensen, Asher Ryan McConnell, Paisley Lou Christensen and Archer Michael Christensen. There was never a doubt about his love for his family. Mike was a man of service. He served his country for 18 years as a skilled mechanic in the Army as well as the Air Force. However, his joy was his 21 years of service in the Utah County Sheriff’s Department. While serving as a Sergeant in the Department he held many positions, ending in the Utah County K9 Unit in 1996; after receiving the LeGrand J. Baker and Beth W. Baker Exemplary Service Award in 1995. After moving to Ivins, Mike served with many great officers and friends at the St. George Port of Entry until his retirement in 2015. Mike loved his friends. From childhood he has kept them close. There were many hikes in the Sierras and elsewhere, floats down the Colorado, “Quail Hunting” in Joshua Tree and just enjoying and loving each other’s company wherever they landed. I guarantee he will find a way to continue to accompany them in the next years. Anyone who knew “Harpo” knew his love of music. He was a master of music trivia and spent endless hours singing along with the great masters. He loved the boy scout program, running marathons, over 25, and coffee at Perks. He will truly be missed. A “Celebration of Life” will be held on July 12th. We will gather at 120 S. Mesa Vista Court Ivins, Utah between 8AM and 9 AM. At 9AM there will be a short program after which time we will drive to the Santa Clara Cemetery for the final farewell and dedication of the grave. Thank you in advance for your everlasting love and support.

Michael John McConnell

July 21, 1950 - June 30, 2025