Missoula Music Scene Mourns Joey Connell

The news hit like a brick to the face, leaving many Montanans, who typically have plenty to say, completely speechless. This week, Missoula's music scene lost one of it's own, sound man about town, 34-year-old Joey Connell.

The phrase gets thrown around a lot when people are mourning, but Joey was genuinely, truly 'one of the good ones.' Like many pierced up tatted rockers, Joey had a huge heart. He cared deeply about others, strangers and friends alike, and wouldn't hesitate to stop what he was doing to help someone in need.

Joey was a brilliant sound technician, or 'sound guy,' as we called him. He was the sound engineer/stage manager at The Wilma and sound engineer at Hi-Tech Audio & Lighting. Joey was also a staple at many other venues and shows including Stage 112, the VFW, Rockin' The Rivers and Testy Fest.

When people remember Joey, I know they will remember his contagious, mischievous smile. But his best smile was the one he had when he was holding his baby boy. He was in love with that little guy and I know that Joey's friends and family will make sure that little Jack grows up knowing what a special soul his father was.

One of his close friends said something that I think sums up how all of us feel, "I just wish he could of known his true meaning to all of us."

A GoFundMe account has been set up for Joey's son Jack, and is lovingly referred to as the "Jack Pot." The family requests that donations be made to the account in lieu of flowers.

Joey's funeral will be held at the place he loved dearly and took pride in being associated with, The Wilma. All are welcome to join in celebrating Joey's life on Sunday, May 22nd at 1 p.m. with a reception to follow at Caras Park. And you know damn well there will be live rock!