Phillip James Connell

Phillip J. Connell, 83, of Altoona, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026 at Dimensions Living in Eau Claire.

On August 21, 1942, Phil was born to Valentine and Beatrice Connell in Chippewa Falls. He was raised on Connell's Apple Orchard and Farm; he was the oldest of 5 children. He attended Little Bluff Schoolhouse which was right up the road from farm and continued his education at Chippewa Falls Senior High School. After graduating, he furthered his education at the vocational school for plumbing. He then became a master plumber, working for several plumbing companies throughout the years as well as started his own plumbing business, Connell Plumbing, which he had for 10 years. He then went back to other plumbing companies for the remainder of his career until his retirement. After retirement, he worked part time at L&M Mail & Courier in Eau Claire. He also enjoyed spending his time volunteering at St. Mary's, Saint Francis Food Pantry, and Community Table of Eau Claire. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He Married Margaret Schlewitz on October 23, 1965. Eventually, they moved to Altoona and together they raised three children. He was a very family-oriented man. His greatest joys were his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild.

He enjoyed camping, fishing, campfires, fish fries, gardening, feeding the birds, going to the casino, working at the orchard, fishing trips to Canada, wedding dances and polka music. He particularly enjoyed being a member of Stand In The Light Memory Choir.

Phil is survived by his wife Marge of 61 years; children Michelle (Scott) Ellis, Angie (Jon) Huth; and Pat (Deena) Connell; grandchildren Madison (Cody) Richter, Mackenzie Ellis (Ben Heeringa), Tanner Ellis (Fiancé Samantha May), Paris (Cash) Hickenthier, Paige (Brendan) Lotzer, Mackayle Connell, Madalyn Connell and great-grandchild Kemper Hickethier; sisters Kathleen Connell, Patricia (Dennis) Mueller, Jennifer Connell; brother Richard J. Connell, special sister Susan (Keith) Dippel; and many nieces, nephews, and other loving family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, in-laws, niece Lynn Hays, great-niece Ali Ditter and great nephew Baby Dominic Williams.

A special thank you to the staff at Dimensions Living of Eau Claire, St. Croix Hospice, as well as his book buddy Al, for their care, comfort, and companionship along his journey.

A celebration of Phil's life will be held beginning at 10 A.M. at Stokes, Prock & Mundt Funeral Chapel, 535 S. Hillcrest Pkwy, Altoona on Saturday, July 25, with a service taking place at 11 A.M.

"Can I offer you a cold one? Cheers, here's looking up your old address."

-Phil Connel