Visitation: Family will greet visitors one hour prior to the service.
Service: Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Canton United Methodist Church in Canton, SD.
Wesley “Wes” McConnell, age 83, passed away Monday, November 24, 2025 surrounded by his family at Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, SD. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Canton United Methodist Church in Canton, SD. Family will greet visitors one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial may be directed to Canton United Methodist Church.
Wes was born on September 30, 1942 to Eugene and Geneva McConnell in Staton, IA. Wes graduated from Elliot High School in Elliot, IA in 1961. Elliot High School is also where he met his future wife, Betty. The couple was married on October 27, 1962 in Elliot, IA. The couple made their home in Storm Lake, IA while Wes attended Buena Vista University. The family lived in several places before settling in Canton, SD in 1975
After obtaining a Biology Degree, Wes began teaching high school. Wes furthered his education by earning a Master’s Degree from Oklahoma State University. He then began teaching at Dubuque University. Wes concluded his working career in Agronomy and Ag Sales Management, retiring in 2004.
In his spare time, Wes enjoyed gardening, watching sports, telling stories, and spending time with his family, especially attended his grandchildren’s activities. He was also a 50-year member of Canton United Methodist Church, longtime leader of the annual Methodist Turkey Supper, and a past Lion’s Club member.
Wes will be remembered as an honest, hardworking man who loved his family deeply and motivated people to do and be their best.
Wes is survived by his wife of 63 years, Betty; son, Mark (Sharon) McConnell; daughter, Marla (Terry) Woessner; grandchildren, Nicky (Stephen) Bussell, Natalie (Brandon) Gray, Sam McConnell, Gabie McConnell, Madysen Woessner, Skyler (Keiana) Stansell, Megan (Jake) Rinish, and Melissa (Colby) Reynolds; 9 great-grandchildren; brother, Stanley (Phyllis) McConnell; along with numerous extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister and brother-in-law, Peggy (Richard) Pierson.