Matthew Steven McConnell

Matthew Steven McConnell, known to all who loved him as Steve, was born on October 12, 1954, in Motherwell, Scotland. At the age of two, he came to America with his parents, Matthew B. and Margaret “Pearl” C. McConnell, as they set out to build their life in the United States. The family settled in Delaware, where Steve grew up, graduated from John Dickinson High School, and put down roots that would last a lifetime. Deeply devoted to his parents, Steve carried their love, loyalty, and proud Scottish heritage with him always.

In 1975, Steve married the love of his life, Denise, beginning more than fifty years together filled with devotion, laughter, and adventure. He began his career at Amtrak’s Wilmington Shops in 1976 as an electrician, and it quickly became clear that his talents extended far beyond the technical. In 1985, with characteristic initiative and creativity, Steve established Amtrak’s Media Production Department, pioneering training and safety videos for employees across the country. The work took him from one end of the nation to the other, and he embraced every mile of it. In 2002, he turned that passion into his own full-time video production company, Video Network In-House Productions, which he and Denise ran with the same energy and dedication until Steve’s retirement in 2021.

Steve lived with enthusiasm and a deep sense of community, giving himself fully to his passions and to the people he loved. He was the life of the party, with an infectious spirit and a true zest for life. A devoted Philadelphia Eagles fan, he never missed a chance to cheer them on. Travel was another great joy of his; he was happiest relaxing on a beach or trying his luck at a casino. He was also a talented musician who played the bagpipes, guitar, bass drum, and saxophone. Above all, Steve loved his family and friends, all of whom he considered family. His warmth, humor, and outgoing nature drew people to him effortlessly, and he had a gift for making others feel loved, lighting up every room with his trademark smile and countless memorable sayings.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Denise; his son, Matthew Steven, and daughter-in-law, Lindsay, and his grandson, Finn; and Terrance, who was like a son to him, and his wife, Chigusa. He is also survived by his sister, Linda, and her husband, Richard; his nephew, Matthew, and wife, Meg; his niece, Jennifer, and her husband, Alec; his nephew, Douglas, and his wife, Monica; his niece, Kaylee; and ten great-nieces and nephews who will carry a piece of him forward. He was preceded in death by his parents, Matthew and Pearl, and his brother, Douglas.

A celebration of Steve’s life will be held privately with family and close friends. The family is grateful for the outpouring of love and kindness from all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and long remembered.

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