PINELLAS PARK, Fla. – John E. Connolly Jr., 65, a resident of 135 Hotel Road, Auburn, and winter resident of Seminole, Fla., died on Friday, Feb. 22, after a long courageous battle with cancer.

He was born in New Haven, Conn., June 16, 1942, the eldest son of John E. and Theresa (Mongillo) Connolly Sr. He grew up in New Haven, Conn., and entered the U.S. Marine Corps and served during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Following the service, he entered into an apprenticeship with Steamfitter Local 777 in Connecticut. He was employed as steamfitter until his retirement in 2001.

He enjoyed travel and wintering in Florida, and especially spending time with his grandchildren who were the love of his life.

Survivors include his wife, the former Carlene Gratto, whom he married on Dec. 24, 1983, of Auburn and Seminole, Fla.; his mother, Theresa Horton of East Haven, Conn.; two daughters, Kelly Connolly of Massachusetts and Jacqueline Surro of Connecticut; two stepdaughters, Dawn Koss and Chantal Leavitt, both of Florida; one sister, Gail DeMorro of Milford, Conn.; six grandchildren, Anthony, Angela, Kyle, Cody, Demitria and Olivia; also surviving are many nieces and nephews.