Francis Connor

Chicopee - Francis M. Connor, 83, of Waite Ave., a retired drill press operator and expediter, of Savage Arms, of Westfield and formerly Chicopee ended his earthly journey on Friday, August 13,2004 following a brief illness in Mercy Medical Center, Springfield. Francis was born in the former Falls section of Chicopee, a son of the late Charles and Mary (Sharon) Connor, and was educated in St. Patrick?s Grammar School, and was a graduate of Cathedral High School. It was during this time, Francis, perfected the sport of table tennis, then known as ping pong to become a well known, gifted and area champion. Subsequently, Francis became President of the Y.M.C.A.  Table Tennis Club, Springfield. A parishioner of St. Patrick Church, Chicopee, Francis was also one of the church's Lectors and Eucharistic Ministers. He and his wife Lena, unselfishly gave of their time on a weekly basis to their community. Francis and Lena were members of Retired and Senior Volunteer Program also known as R.S.V.P. Generously, they enlisted their time to the former Chicopee Municipal Home, Elms Manor, and Birch Manor, bringing joy into many lives of the residents of these nursing facilities. Francis was also a 50 year member of the Knights of Columbus #69, Chicopee. A daughter in 1998 Sister Mary de Porres, Order of Preachers, Dominican Sisters, formerly known as Dorothy Connor; his parents, 4 brothers and 2 sisters predeceased Francis. Francis leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 63 years the former Lena Geoffroy and his beloved daughter Teresa A. Connor both of Chicopee, several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday 9:00 A.M. from the Tylunas Funeral Home, 159 Broadway, Chicopee, followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial celebrated at 10:00 A.M. in St. Patrick Church, 319 Broadway, Chicopee. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home, for visitation on Tuesday from 3-7 PM. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Home, 760 Pollard Boulevard South West, Atlanta, Georgia 30315