San Francisco Chronicle - (Sunday)
H. George Connell
January 30, 1944 - December 17, 2022
H. George Connell Harold George Connell, age 78; friend, mentor, and beloved husband, passed away peacefully on December 17th, 2022, at his home in San Francisco, California.
George was born on January 30th,1944 to Harold and Agnes Connell in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He graduated from William Penn Charter School in 1961, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania in 1965, and an MBA from Columbia University in 1967.
For five decades George worked as an information technology manager or consultant for major corporations and consulting firms. He was renowned for his intelligence, wit, and generosity, and became a mentor to younger colleagues who rose to the top of their professions.
Food and wine inspired George, as did the people involved in the growing, cultivating, cooking, and creating. Almost every Saturday, he could be found at the
Ferry Plaza Farmers Market where he befriended every vendor he encountered. His respect for cooks was genuine. When leaving a restaurant, whether a 3-star Michelin in San Sebastián or a neighborhood diner, he would always say, “Thank you, Chef!” to those working in the kitchen.
George is remembered by many in the food community. People gravitated towards his charisma, charm humor and warmth. A master punster with a strong sense of whimsy: his teddy bear Theodore was given a place of honor at his wedding. He treasured his friends that could respond with puns of their own that would bring out his wonderful warm laugh.
George is survived by his wife, Ida, and by countless friends and chosen family members. He is deeply loved and missed. A celebration of life will be held at a time to be announced in the future.