William "Bill" Connelly

William “Bill” Craig Connelly, 76, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on March 8, 2026, with his children at his side. Born on March 13, 1949, in Des Moines, he spent his entire life rooted in the community and the outdoors he loved.

Bill graduated from Tech High School in 1967 and married his high school sweetheart, Jan, and together they raised their family. In his children’s younger years, he supported them in their activities and shared with them the parts of life he knew best. Many of their fondest memories come from time spent outdoors with him—fishing, hunting, and learning about the natural world he cared so deeply for.

Soon after graduation Bill began what would become a nearly 40 year career with the City of Des Moines. As a building inspector, he was well respected for his knowledge, fairness, and dedication to the city he served. He retired in 2007 to care for his second wife, Nancy, during her illness until her passing in 2009.

Outside of his professional life, Bill devoted much of his time to the pursuits that brought him the greatest enjoyment. Fishing, hunting, and traveling with friends to spend time outdoors were among his favorite activities. He was a longtime and active member of the Izaak Walton League, where he shared the organization’s commitment to conservation and the preservation of natural resources. For many years, he also volunteered as a hunter safety instructor, taking pride in teaching responsible hunting practices and firearm safety to new generations of hunters. His time spent outdoors and with fellow sportsmen remained a consistent and meaningful part of his life, and his children were grateful for the knowledge and passion he shared with them in their younger years.

Bill was also a gifted woodworker and a natural problem solver. He played a role in building the family’s first home and crafted special pieces of furniture that remain treasured parts of the household. He also enjoyed making pinewood derby cars for his grandchildren, a small tradition that brought him quiet satisfaction. If something needed fixing, Bill could fix it; if something needed building, he built it.

Bill is survived by his children, Brian (Katie) Connelly, David (Amanda) Connelly, and Amanda (Alan) Rockey; his grandchildren, Zachary (Ada Schauer and her son Jace) Capps, Lauren Capps, Jacob Capps, Owen Connelly, Stella Connelly, Emma Connelly, Maverick Rockey, and Sawyer Rockey. He is also survived by his siblings, Becky (Randy) Swisher, Brett (Lori) Connelly, and Chris (Beth) Connelly; step sister, Lynda (Doug) Christiansen; sister in law, Deana Connelly; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Janice Radke; his father, Jack Connelly; his stepmother, Diane Connelly; his stepfather, Royal “Cap” Radke; his second wife, Nancy Connelly; and his brother, Bob Connelly.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Eagles Lodge #109; 6567 Bloomfield Road, Des Moines.

As his children say goodbye, they carry forward the early lessons he shared—the patience of fishing, the respect of hunting, and the value of working with one’s hands. They reflect on the parts of him that influenced their lives and the memories that have stayed with them. Most of all, they hope he finds calm waters and quiet shores.

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