Mary McConnel

A Life Well Lived

Mary lived life to the fullest. She was born in Portland, Oregon, to parents Mike and Helen Beovich, who immigrated to the United States from Yugoslavia (Croatia). She was the youngest of four children and the only daughter. Her brothers, John, Tony, and Louie Beovich, preceded her in death.

After high school, she married Gary Moberly, and together they had three children: Julie, Mike, and Steve. Mary later became a court reporter and moved her family to McMinnville, Oregon, where she worked in circuit court until her retirement.

During her time in McMinnville, she met and married Robert McConnel. They spent 35 happy years together, building a beautiful home in Amity, Oregon, where they raised dogs, pygmy goats, and a small Christmas tree farm. They loved to travel and spent many joyful days in their fifth wheel, camping and exploring the United States.

After Bob’s passing, Mary discovered a love for international travel. Adventurous and curious, she explored many parts of the world, including Cuba, Dubai, Turkey, Greece, Spain, Switzerland, China, and Russia. Just two years ago, she fulfilled a lifelong dream by going on a safari in Tanzania and Kenya.

After retiring, Mary was not one to sit still. She remained active in her community, living in Amity, then Tualatin, and later Tigard. She formed many cherished friendships while volunteering at the Discovery Shop, where proceeds support cancer research. She also volunteered at the gift shop at Meridian Park Hospital and at Broadway Rose Theatre. She enjoyed being part of the singles club and garden club, and loved spending time with friends at the pub or playing bingo.

Above all, Mary’s greatest joy was her family. She loved deeply and would drop everything to help those she cared about.

Mary is survived by her children: Julie Nokes; Mike (Cass) Moberly; Steve (Diana) Moberly; Candi (Jack) Carlisle; and Kris (Tom) Torrence.

She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Deanna Hart-Nokes (Graham) and great-granddaughter Roxanna; Jacob Nokes; Mathew (Shelby) Moberly; Hailey Moberly; and Ryan Torrence.