Rockford, IllinoisWilliam P. "Pat" McConnell, 61, of Rockford, IL died Friday afternoon, August 15, 2008 in Northwoods Care Center in Belvidere after an eight month illness. Pat was born June 9, 1947 in Noble, Arkansas the son of John P. and Goldie (Ricker) McConnell. He worked for Chrysler Corp and the for Stanley Structural Design in Muscatine, IA before returning to Rockford where he worked as a machine designer for Createch in Machesney Park. Pat was a veteran of the US Army serving as a military police officer in Viet Nam. He was a stamp collector and an avid baseball fan and was a passionate Pittsburgh Pirates fan; as well as being a great ball player in his youth. He was also a devoted Beatles fan. Pat is survived by his children, Clint of North Carolina, Erin and Brandi of Arizona, Bailey of Pennsylvania, and Christian of Iowa; sister, Terri (Curt Vangsness) Vich of Rockford; brothers, Mike (Judy) of Missouri, Dan (Gail) of Rockford, Tony (Jody) of Arkansas, Vic (Jayne) of Byron; five grandsons and three granddaughters; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Pat is preceded in death by his parents, John and Goldie; brother, Frank and grandson, Marcus.The family wishes to acknowledge the love and care given by OSF Hospice to the entire McConnell family.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial gifts be direct to OSF Hospice, 6122 Mulford Village Dr., Rockford, IL 61107 in Pat's memory.