J. Michael Connolly

Mike Connolly passed away July 29, 2015 at Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane. He was born July 7, 1956, in Tonopah, Nevada. He was raised in Reno, graduating from Manogue High School in 1974. Mike also attended the University of Nevada, Reno. Mike and Terry Mooney were married June 12, 1976.

In 1977, Mike and Terry moved to Harrington to work on the Bly Ranch. It was there that Mike fell in love with cattle and horses. Later they moved to Odessa. Mike worked for Odessa Trading Co., Odessa Auto Parts, and the State of Washington while building a cattle and horse herd. Mike rented pasture and fixed a lot of fence in three counties trying to get his start. Gradually long-term leases came along and he was able to be self-employed. Near the end of Mike's life he had finally accomplished his goal of buying farm ground and put together a wheat, cattle, hay and Quarter Horse ranch.

Mike was loved by many and was a strong Christian role model. He was admired for his strong work ethic, kind heart, gentle soul and generosity. He had a way of always bringing light and laughter to a room. The impact that that Mike has made on his family, community and all those who knew and loved him will be everlasting and he will be greatly missed. Always remember what Mike preached to many, "Don't ever give up. Now put on your boots and get back to work!"

Mike leaves behind his wife Terry of 39 years, daughters Jill Connolly and Katie (Matt) Douglas, and granddaughter Angela Douglas; sister Kathy (Steve) Cole, brother Jim (Tracey) Connolly, sister Jeanne, brother John, Uncle Robert and Aunt Maggie Connolly; in-laws Cliff and Bonnie Mooney, Janie (Dave) Steward, Jim (Lisa) Mooney, Donna Mooney, Don (Leona) Mooney, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and 'adopted' kids. Mike was preceded in death by his parents Ed and Rosa Connolly, as well as Bishop Thomas Connolly and many other dear aunts, uncles and cousins.

There will be a Mass and Vigil/Rosary Sunday, August 2, at 5 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Odessa. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, August 3, at the Odessa Community Center, followed by interment at the Odessa Cemetery. Memorials may be made to St. Joseph's Altar Society, Box 700, Odessa WA 99159 or any organization of your choice. Please sign the online guestbook at http://www.stratefuneralhome.com. Strate Funeral Home in Davenport is caring for the Connolly family.