Howard J. "Spike" Connolly passed away peaceably June 12, 2012, surrounded by family at the age of 89.

He is survived by his wife of 22 years Kathleen M.; daughters Peggy (Steve) Fisher and Lauren Connolly (Bruce Chalker), and 2
grandchildren, Trevor and Drew Fisher.

Spike was born and raised in New York City. He attended college at Niagara and Villanova University, leaving to join the U.S. Marines in 1942. He served in World War II and was awarded the Bronze and Silver stars for service in Korea. He became the first U.S. Marine officer to serve as an aide to an Army Corps commander.

He worked for the National Brewing Company before starting his long career in the Florida citrus business, working for various companies and ultimately starting his own company in Vero Beach.

Following Kathleen's lead he was involved in the Literacy Services of Indian River County where he served two terms as president. He was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church and served as the first president of the parish council.

Mass of Christian burial will be held 11am on Monday June 18, 2012 at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 500 Iris Lane, Vero Beach FL. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Literacy Services of Indian River County, Inc. at 1600 21st Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960 or VNA Hospice of Indian River County at 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach FL 32960.

Arrangements are under the care of Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory in Vero Beach, FL. Online condolences may be sent at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com.