Connolly Oyler

Jan. 15, 1934-Oct. 23, 2015

Husband, father, grandfather, friend, mentor and funny man, Connolly was a respected family law attorney, always proud to give his clients “New Beginnings.”

A proud resident of the Palisades for 30 years (1984-2014), Connolly was born in Chicago, raised in Los Angeles from the age of 4. He was a graduate of Fairfax High School, UCLA and USC Law School – a true Angeleno, through and through.

Connolly was an active member of the Rotary Club of Santa Monica and the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. His past involvement included UCLA Alumni Association, UCLA Chancellor’s Associates, CA State Bar and Los Angeles County Bar Family Law Section, President of the SF Valley Bar and Santa Monica Bar Associations, the JAYCEES, Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce, Levitt & Quinn Family Law Services, Pepperdine School of Law Board of Visitors, Lorena Ochoa Foundation and much more.

Connolly is survived by his wife Michelle; children Leslie (Michael), Todd (Erin), Morgan and Caitlin; grandchildren Alexa and Cameron, Acacia and Luci; and pets Olive Oyler, Rico, Beanie and Enzo.

Connolly was blessed to have two families, treasuring every moment of his children’s lives. Leslie and Todd grew up in the Hollywood Hills, enjoying tennis at the Mulholland Tennis Club, skiing at Mammoth and vacationing in Hawaii. Morgan and Caitlin grew up in Pacific Palisades, playing baseball, soccer, basketball and volleyball. Connolly never missed a game! They, too, vacationed in Hawaii. No one was prouder of his children than Connolly. He was their biggest fan.

Connolly and Michelle were married 33 blessed years, enjoying their children and grandchildren, family, friends and pets. They welcomed many into their home, for parties or fundraisers or just to stay a while. They traveled frequently and enjoyed their getaway time in La Quinta at their desert home.

An avid athlete, Connolly was a “ring man” gymnast, body surfer, beach volleyball player, tennis player, skier and treasured a good nap on the beach. He was also a lifelong animal lover.

Connolly lived his life with passion, joy and a generous spirit. It was a life well lived. Each day was a gift, an opportunity to meet a new friend, tell a (dirty) joke, share a little bit of wisdom and give a hug. He will be missed.