----Source: THORP COURIER (Thorp, Clark County, Wis.) 06/11/1925

Connors, Ronald (15 Mar 1899 - 30 May 1925)

(Mellen, Wis. Weekly)

Last Monday night the city of Mellen was struck by one of the worst calamities possible, one that three a pall of grief over the entire city, the tragic death of Ronald Connors being the cause of the wholefelt grief.

Monday noon Connors, accompanied by Glenn Knutson and Steve Frkovich, left the city for Gordon Lake to spend the afternoon and evening fishing. All three of the young men were equipped with their steel rods, little knowing at the time that these same rods would cause the tragic death of one of the members and near death of another.

The three young men had fished the greater part of the afternoon and intended to spend the evening on the lake. About 6 o'clock the sky commenced to darken and give signs of a storm, but with a purpose set to remain for the evening they continued fishing, although the storm came nearer and nearer.

At seven o'clock came a blinding flash of lightning and a deafening crash. Knutson was seated in the middle of the boat, Frkovich in the back and Connors was seated in the front. Frkovich and Connors both had their steel rods in their hands, Knutson having his beside him on the seat, which no doubt was the cause of his miraculous escape. With the crash Frkovich was completely stunned and started to slide over the side of the boat. Knutson in the center of the boat although jarred considerably, came to in time to rescue Frkovich. After having place Frkovich so as to keep his head out of the water, the boat being about half full, Knutson turned to Connors only to find him gone. After staying at that spot for some time watching for Connors, Knutson next rowed to shore and called for help. With assistance the still unconscious Frkovich was brought to the Gordon Lake Pavilion and revived. A call was put in to Mellen and Dr. Critchlow rushed to the scene. A drag was rigged up and the lake was dragged, and at 11:00 p.m. the body of Connors was struck and brought to the surface. The body was brought to his home in the city the same night.

Ronald Connors was born at Thorp, Clark County, Wis., March 15th, 1899, being at the time of his death 26 years, 2 months and 15 days of age.

Mr. Connors came to this city about a year and a half ago, having worked for the Toy Factory during the first year, from where he left to take over one of the local pool halls, of which he was proprietor and manager. He was well liked by all for his genial personality was one that made him friends with all. His place of business was always run in a clean orderly fashion.

Immediate relatives who mourn the passing of Ronald Connors are his mother, Mrs. Nettie Connor of Milwaukee; two sisters, Mrs. G. Dooley of Milwaukee and Mrs. W. A. Bogumill of this city; and two brothers, James Connors of Wis. Rapids and George Connor, a student at Marquette University in Milwaukee.