Thomas Charles Connolly was born January 15, 1927 in Benson, Minnesota, the son of Daniel Leo and Clara Cecelia (Dolan) Connolly. He was baptized as an infant at Church of the Visitation in Danvers. He grew up in Danvers and attended grade school at Danvers. Tom graduated from Benson High School in 1944, attended St. John's University before enlisting in January of 1945. He served in the Navy until July of 1946. He attended the University of Minnesota, graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1950. He worked for Honeywell for four years before returning to work with his father at the State Bank of Danvers in 1954. On December 31, 1955, Tom was united in marriage to Ann DeMarce. The couple was blessed with five children. Ann passed away in March of 1970. Together Tom and Ann were able to share in 14 years of marriage. On September 27, 1974, Tom was married to Yvonne Raw. Together, Tom and Vonnie shared in 34 years of marriage. Tom became President and CEO of the bank following his father's death in 1960. He enjoyed working at the bank; helping people with advice, financial support and constructive criticism as needed. In a sense, he was a father to the community. Tom was a banker for over 54 years, faithfully working at his desk until last Thursday. Tom was called from this life on Monday, May 4, 2009 at the Swift County Benson Hospital. He attained the age of 82 years, 3 months and 19 days. Tom enjoyed working in his community and his church. He was a member of the SCBH Foundation, the Knights of Columbus, a member of the Benson School Board, he served as Danvers City Clerk, and was a founding member and board member of CVAC. Among the things he enjoyed were woodworking, crossword puzzles, fishing, and flying. Tom is survived by his wife Vonnie of Benson; his children: John (Deb) Connolly of Danvers, Vince (Joyce) Connolly of John's Creek, GA, Joe (Pam) Connolly of Lake Elmo, Ellen (Jeff) Eckhoff of Northfield, Daniel (Marcia) Connolly of Benson, Chauntel (Brad) Rode of Benson, Kim Knutson of Madison, WI, and Cari (Peter) White of Chicago; 17 grandchildren: Pat, Tara, Krysta, Katie, Tom, Meagan, Jina, Joni, Chris, Annie, Emily, Joey, Danielle, Karen, Matt, Courtney, and Ashley; three great grandchildren: Camden, Calla, and Maci; one sister, Charlene Hunter of West Des Moines, IA; and other relatives and friends. Preceding him in death were his first wife, Ann; his parents, Daniel and Clara; and an infant brother John Gregory Connolly.