Paul E. Connell, 75, Vietnam Veteran, Retired from Covanta

Paul E. Connell, 75, husband of Marsha A. (Armstrong) Connell, passed away Sept. 30, at Steward Holy Family Hospital, Methuen, with his family at his side.

Born in Haverhill, he was the son of the late James J. Connell and Anna (Kirpish) Connell. Raised and educated in Haverhill, he was a graduate of Haverhill Trade School, class of 1961. A welder and mechanic by trade, he was employed for various contractors in the Merrimack Valley area, retiring from Covanta of Haverhill in 2007. Connell had the honor of serving his country in difficult times and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his actions during combat as an artilleryman while serving in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army. He enjoyed spending time with his family at his camp on Lake Richardson in Maine. While at his camp he enjoyed boating and snow shoeing. He was an avid Red Sox fan, liked classic cars and meeting with his friends for coffee. He was a devoted family man who was proud of his Irish heritage. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his wife Marsha, he is survived by his children, Timothy P. Connell of Haverhill, Michael J. Connell and his wife Melissa of West Carthage, N.Y., and Amy C. James and her husband Brian of Georgetown; seven grandchildren, Sgt. Jessica Archer of the United States Army, Faith A. Connell, Brian J. Connell, Kevin P. Connell, SPC Michael Jojokian of the United States Army, Rhys A. James, Wesley W. James; great grandson, Bryton Maine, Archer; and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by a special niece, Tracy Jojokian and her husband Larry. He was predeceased by his siblings, Joan E. Connell, Constance C. Connell, James J. Connell Jr., Robert J. Connell, and Stephen A. Connell.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours Thursday, Oct. 5 from 4 to 7 p.m., at Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main St., Haverhill. Funeral services are Friday at 10 a.m., in the funeral Home. Burial follows in Elmwood Cemetery, Salem Street, Bradford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Veterans Northeast Outreach Center, 10 Reed Street, Haverhill, MA 01832.