Reid Curtis Connell

MISSOULA ~ Reid Curtis Connell was born on April 29, 1944 to Jack and Mildred (Gunkel) Connell. Reid was greeted by older brother Fay Gene. The Connell family was completed with birth of sister Sandra a few years later. The family moved to the ranch in the ND Badlands when Reid was 2. Grade school was a country school where he was often 1 of 2 students. One year his mother was even his teacher. Reid was sickly as a small child but grew into quite a horseman. He was quite athletic, artistic, and musical. He was often the soloist at high school music concerts.

Reid served in the military as part of the Honor Guard for the US Army. He participated in many military events including guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

While in the military, Reid met and married Valerie Mitchell. Joanne was born to this union. Unfortunately her whereabouts were unknown until recent years due to her maternal family taking her.

Reid married Norma Jean Aipperspach in 1968. Three daughters, Kelley, Shauna, and Shahara, blessed this union.

Reid married Josephine (Jody) Ann Monroe in 1979. With this union he gained children Candyce and Mark.
Reid worked for Missoula Cartage and many other trucking companies until retirement. He won many truck driving competitions which he was very proud of. He and Jody also raised thoroughbred racehorses.
Reid was an avid reader which continued until his vision no longer allowed it. He also did beautiful leatherwork. Reid was always up for conversation, whether over the phone or with a group of friends for coffee. He had a fantastic memory when it came to dates. He loved a good rodeo and was often found watching PRCA in his home.

Survivors include siblings, Fay (Lynn) Connell, and Sandra (Ed) Holsten. He is also survived by children JoAnne (Tom) Falsetta, Kelley (Dan) Dosch, Shauna (Freddie) Gentry, Shahara (Nathan) Roe, Candyce Dahlman, Mark (Candice)Hayes, and Karen Edwards. Also surviving him are 14 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his three wives and 2 nephews.

Arrangements are under the care of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home in Missoula.