CALVIN GRANT McCONNELL

October 19, 2021

Calvin Grant McConnell of Kincardine Township, died peacefully Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021, at the South Bruce Grey Health Centre – Kincardine, at the age of 92. Cherished husband of Norma McConnell (nee Hedley) for 66 years. Loving father of Mark (Rosanne) McConnell of Kincardine Township and Geoffrey (Jeanette) McConnell of Moosomin, Saskatchewan. Beloved grandfather of Bailey and Ashley; Chayse, Lauren, Reaghan and Julia. Greatly missed by his siblings, Phyllis, Glen, Audrey, Wray (Janet), Mel (Elaine), Kathy (Bob), Annetta (Ted), Sharon (Harold) and Norval (Isabell). Also missed by his sister-in-law, Helen Hedley (Donnie); brothers-in-law, Glenn and Kevin (Jo Ann) Hedley, and Ross Baptist; and son-in-law, Dennis Kidd. Calvin will be forever cherished and greatly missed by several nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbours. Predeceased by his parents, Russell and Mary (Kerr) McConnell; brothers, Eric, Orland, Karl and Elwyn; sister, Margaret; brothers-in-law, Harvey Robinson, Willard Metcalfe and Joe Bandura; and sisters-in-law, Isabel, Dorothy, Eleanor and Janet. Also predeceased by his only daughter, Shannon Marie, June 19, 2013. We have no doubt that Shannon was there to greet her dad, and is already touring him through her beautiful gardens above. Calvin was a true gentleman, with his peaceful and calming demeanor – he never had a bad day and always saw the glass as half-full. He always said to Mark that after his back injury he lay for so long unable to do anything, he would never complain about being able to do something. He took a real interest in anyone who came into his life. He was an inspiration to many and provided encouragement and advice to those who needed it. It is amazing how many lives he touched with all of the roads he travelled in life. Calvin was born in Kincardine Township and made this his life-long home farming on Sideroad 15. He has farmed with his family at Dun-Rovin Acres for 67 years. He began by raising police dogs which were sold to areas throughout Canada, and then he developed a love for Brown Swiss dairy cattle. He was one of the oldest Brown Swiss breeders in Canada, and promoted the breed for many years. Calvin shared his love for the “Big Brown Cows” by exhibiting them at shows throughout the country, and was even prouder when his cattle genetics went on to be successful for other breeders. He was extremely humbled and honoured to be awarded the first Master Breeder for the breed in 2017. He loved being outdoors working around the farm with his animals (of all shapes and sizes!), and working in his gardens with his dog by his side. He was a leader and mentor to many throughout his years – he enjoyed remaining in touch with many of these young people and learning of the accomplishments in their lives. Calvin was very involved in his community, his church and the Kincardine Agricultural Society. He loved attending social functions with family, friends and neighbours. He loved music and he loved to dance - whether it was at a niece’s or nephew’s wedding, or just in the barn. When a song came on, his toe was tapping. No matter how busy he was, he always made time to have a good visit when someone would stop in at the farm. As a tribute to Calvin, please “Live your life as he did with kindness, caring and respect for those around you.” A private family service will be held at the Anglican Church of the Messiah, Kincardine, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, at 2 p.m., with Rev. Rob Hiscox officiating. In Calvin’s memory, donations may be made to the Kincardine Church of the Messiah or Kincardine Agricultural Society; arrangements entrusted to Grey Bruce Cremation and Burial Services. On-line condolences at www.greybrucecremation.com.