Howard J. “Spike” Connolly, 89, died June 12, 2012, at VNA Hospice in Vero Beach.
He was born in New York City.
He worked for the National Brewing Co. before starting his long career in the Florida citrus business, working for various companies and ultimately starting his own company in Vero Beach.
He was a Marine Corps veteran of World War II and was awarded the Bronze and Silver stars for service in Korea.
He became the first Marine Corps officer to serve as an aide to an Army Corps commander.
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.
He attended college at Niagara and Villanova University, leaving to join the Marine Corps in 1942.
Survivors include his wife of 22 years, Kathleen M.; daughters, Peggy Fisher and Lauren Connolly; and two grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Literacy Services of Indian River County, 1600 21st St., Vero Beach, FL 32960.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. June 18 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Vero Beach.
Arrangements are by Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory in Vero Beach.
A guestbook is available at www.seawindsfh.com.
