FREEPORT — Michael P. Connolly of Baker Road in Freeport passed away on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 as the result of injuries suffered from a traffic accident. He was 51.

Mike is survived by his son, Ryan Connolly of Lisbon Falls, his brother, Daniel P Connolly of Brunswick, his brother, Timothy J Connolly and his wife Dawn of Freeport, his niece Hillary Liddle of Shelburne, VT., his nephew, Thomas Connolly of Freeport, as well as several cousins and aunts on both the East and West coasts of the US.

He was employed at Jameson Tavern in Freeport.

Mike was a gentle soul. He was always happy to see family and friends. As a boy he loved animals and had many pets. He also loved anything and everything to do with horticulture and had the green thumb to prove it. He worked in several area greenhouses and perennial gardens. He became a master with perennials which he raised and sold in a roadside stand for many years.

He never became wealthy from pursuing his passion with greenery. The pride in his eyes as he nurtured each and every one of his plants was all the payment he needed.

Always thoughtful and giving, Mike would show up at a friend or relative’s home with a trunk load of annuals and perennials just to help make their gardens a little greener.

Mike also had a bit of rock hound in him. He loved to go to Deer Hill looking for amethyst and quartz crystals and had accumulated quite a collection over the years.

Mike was a music fan and enjoyed many genres. He was especially fond of Southern Rock. He played drums for a rock band just after High School and lamented later in life that he “should have kept going.”

Sixteen years ago Mike was blessed with his son, Ryan whom he loved with all his heart. Mike spent lots of time with Ryan. They fished together, played together, and eventually worked together. They were not only father and son, they were best friends.

There will be a celebration of Mike’s life on Saturday, January 14 at the Post # 2 Amvet’s Hall, 148 North Road in Yarmouth, Maine from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the: Epilepsy Foundation of America 8301 Professional Place Landover, MD. 20785- 7223.


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