TBDBITL Alumni Club

The Best Damn Band In The Land - The Ohio State University Marching Band Alumni

Charles Wilhelm Connin

February 26, 1924 - January 10, 2017

Charles W. "Charlie" Connin, age 92, of Columbus, Ohio, January 10, 2017. Raised in Bryan, Ohio.

Retired from Rockwell International where he excelled as a tool designer. Sidelined from active duty for medical reasons, he helped the war effort by starting his career at Curtiss-Wright during WWII, and after the war was employed by Curtiss-Wright, North American Aviation, North American Rockwell, and Rockwell International.

In the early 1960s, Charlie was selected for training in using early computers to build the tools he designed, using both punched cards and punched aluminum tape.

In 1960, he became a charter member of the North American Aviation Band. He played faithfully; continuing when the band moved to Westerville. The Westerville community witnessed his love of concert band music which kept him playing his baritone horn into his 80's.

Charlie is survived by his daughter, Janis (John) Stephens; and son, Paul (Helen) Connin; and grandson, Joey Connin. Preceded in death by Frances, his loving wife of 57 years, and his son Dale.

Friends may call at the Moreland Funeral Hime, 55 East Schrock Road, Westerville, Sunday 4-6 pm followed by a service at 6 pm, Pastor Chris Kinner, officiating. Private interment at Union cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Westerville Community Bands in his honor.

Charlie was a member of the marching band in 1942 and played baritone.