Connor James Vessely

01/19/2003 - 09/09/2025

Connor James Vessely passed away on Tuesday, September 9. He was born January 19, 2003, to Joseph Vessely III and Kristen (Sixbury) Vessely in Munster, IN.

A 2021 graduate of Wheeler High School in Valparaiso, IN, Connor threw himself into every opportunity, joining countless clubs, founding the Gay-Straight Alliance, performing in theater productions, and earning academic honors summa cum laude. He performed and did lighting for multiple productions, sported a fantastic accent in And Then There Were None, and starred in a remarkable play Words during the summer of 2018.

At Ball State University, Connor was awarded the prestigious Whitinger Scholarship. His college career saw him excelling as a tutor, volunteer, researcher, and leader, founding the Computer Science Collective and serving in multiple student organizations. He graduated in just three and a half years with a perfect 4.0 GPA, earning a B.S. in Computer Science with a concentration in Data Analytics and Machine Learning, and a minor in Math. His work included internships and research in machine learning, social impact computing, and web development. Connor felt passionately about many social causes. He was truly an amazing young man with such a positive impact on his community.

Beyond academics, Connor's greatest joy was having fun with his friends and family. He loved playing board games (he never lost!). Connor rocked out to Just Dance. Connor loved following along with Bob Ross to create his own masterpieces. He shared his passion for music and stage for years, always being a trend setter. He made every gathering brighter. As a born performer with a vivid imagination, Connor made every occasion memorable-especially on vacations. During one family trip to a lakeside cabin in Minnesota, Connor transformed the Harry Potter franchise into a one-man show complete with British accents and characterizations. The cabin may not have had electricity, but his presence transformed it into something warm and vibrant. Connor was caring, brilliant, engaging, and the most thoughtful gift giver. So many people have been inspired by him, felt seen by him, and have been entertained by his wit and crazy humor. His impact on this world is immeasurable.

Connor is survived by his mother Kristen Vessely; his siblings Joseph, Lily, Grace, Buddy and Chopstick; Grandparents Jeanette Sixbury, Joseph & Karen Vessely, and Rosemary & Donald Fanning; and many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and Friends who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father Joseph Vessely III, and grandfather Herbert Sixbury.

One of Connor's favorite activities was a pumpkin carving party with his friends around Halloween. He also loved a last-minute Friday the 13th party any time of year. In keeping with these traditions, a Celebration of Life will be held in Matthews, NC, on October 18th from12:00PM to 4:00PM at Mario's Italian Restaurant. Mario's is located at 2945 Matthews Weddington Road, Matthews, NC 28104. We will share a meal, carve pumpkins, and reminisce, because no one who met Connor walked away without a little more love in their lives.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, The Alliance of Hope, or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

Holland Funeral Service is serving the Vessely family.