CALVIN McCONNELL

Calvin Grant McConnell, of Kincardine Township, passed away peacefully at the South Bruce Grey Health Centre – Kincardine on Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021, at the age of 92.
Cherished husband for 66 years of Norma McConnell (née Hedley).
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 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.
Calvin was also predeceased by his only daughter Shannon Marie on 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. Calvin always told Mark that after his back injury he had laid for so long not able to do anything, that he would never complain about being able to do something. He took a true interest in anyone that 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. Calvin farmed with his family as Dun-Rovin Acres for 67 years. He first began by raising police dogs, which were sold to areas throughout Canada. Then he developed a love for Brown Swiss dairy cattle.
Calvin was one of the oldest Brown Swiss breeders in Canada, and promoted the breed for many years. He shared his love for “The Big Brown Cows” by exhibiting them at shows throughout the country, and was even more proud 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.
Calvin 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. Calvin was a leader, and a mentor to many, throughout his years, remaining in touch with many of these young people and learning of the accomplishments in their lives. He was also very involved in his community, his church and the Kincardine Agricultural Society. He loved attending social functions with family, friends and neighbours. Calvin 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.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Grey Bruce Cremation and Burial Services.
A private family service was held at the Anglican Church of the Messiah in Kincardine at 2 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, with Rev. Rob Hiscox officiating.
In Calvin’s memory, donations may be made to the Kincardine Church of the Messiah or Kincardine Agricultural Society.
Online condolences may be left at www.greybrucecremation.com.