Lon F. Conner

Lon F. Conner of Denver died on Friday, June 5 of brain cancer. He bravely fought the disease before succumbing peacefully with his family by his side. Lon was born on April 9, 1940 in Rawlins, Wyoming. As a boy Lon won multiple academic awards as well as a state wide sharp shooting contest. After graduating from Rawlins High School in 1958, Lon continued his education at the University of Wyoming earning a Business Administration degree. While attending the University of Wyoming, Lon met his wife of 54 years, Carolyn (Bagby). They were married on June 4, 1961. Together they had two children Craig (Lisa) and Andee Conner Foutch (Kevin) both of Denver. He had three grandsons, Ned, Dan, and Alexander. After Lon received his undergraduate degree, he was a Teaching Assistant in the field of Statistics at The University of Wyoming School of Business. After one year of graduate school, Lon enlisted in the Army and was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Following his military service, Lon began his 42 year career as an executive with JC Penney. His specialty was turning around under-performing stores and ensuring future profitability. Lon was widely recognized for his shrewd business practices that resulted in the great success of stores under his management. He was equally well known as a thoughtful manager who helped guide his employees to both personal and professional success. In addition to his work with JC Penney, Lon served on many boards including The Salvation Army, Goodwill Industries, and The Chamber of Commerce. He was an active church member and served as a deacon at First Presbyterian Church in Hibbing, Minnesota. Lon and Carolyn enjoyed spending time together with trips to the mountains and beach, long walks, working in their garden, and good food. Lon had a deep appreciation for beauty of all kinds and had a particular talent for both fashion and interior design. Above all else, Lon was an excellent husband, father, and grandfather. His wife was his best friend and he loved spending time with his children. He had a particularly close bond with his grandsons. Lon had true grit, always kept his word, and was a gentleman to his core. He taught us all how to live life with integrity. We were lucky to have him as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend.