Louie D. Connaghan
6/15/1968 - 10/13/2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Louie Daniel Connaghan, 56, who entered into eternal life on October 13, 2024, in Bennington, Nebraska. Born on June 15, 1968, in Cheyenne, Wyoming to Robert Joseph and Arta Anne (Hutchins) Connaghan, Louie was a devoted son, husband, father, brother, son-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle and friend to many. He was known for his contagious smile, sharp wit, and generous spirit. His presence brought joy to all who knew him.
Louie graduated from Central High School in Cheyenne, WY in 1986. He attended the University of Arizona and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Wyoming. His professional life was marked by a dedicated 27-year career at Union Pacific Railroad, a role that perfectly matched his lifelong love of trains. Louie started his railroad journey in a very challenging position as a train dispatcher, supervising the movement of dozens of trains at one time, all with safety and efficiency in mind. He moved through various roles across his career, ending in Network Operations. A particularly exciting collaboration he enjoyed in recent years involved helping to coordinate the transport of rocket motors for NASA’s Artemis II mission to the moon. He was also deeply proud of his work facilitating the transportation of troops, machinery, and supplies across the country, contributing to the strength and security of the U.S. military.
Beyond his career, Louie’s true passions were rooted in the things he loved most—family, sports, music, and travel. He was a devoted Denver Broncos fan, loved playing and watching golf and tennis, and enjoyed music, especially classic rock. He could often be found playing guitar in his spare time. Louie loved the serenity of nature and had a special love for the mountains and the ocean. Some of his most beloved moments were spent with family in treasured places like Wyoming, Colorado, Florida, and Hawaii.
Family was at the heart of Louie's life. He cherished spending quality time with his wife, Michelle, and their daughters, Lauren and Ashlyn, and his extensive family. His endless pride for his daughters was known by all. Along with his wife, they were truly the light of his life. He enjoyed laughter, good food, and even better company. His humor and quick wit brought joy to everyone who knew him, and he had a special way of uplifting others with his contagious smile, kindness, and compassion.
Louie leaves behind his beloved wife, Michelle (Frampton) Connaghan, and their daughters, Lauren and Ashlyn Connaghan. He is also survived by his brothers, Paul (Libby) Connaghan and Brian Connaghan; his sisters, Anne Connaghan, Jeanne Connaghan, Julie Connaghan, Amy Connaghan, Emily Connaghan (Michael) Madrid, and
Sarah (Karl) Pfefferle; and his sister-in-law Leslie Connaghan, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Arta Connaghan, brother, Charles Connaghan, and brother-in-law, Dean Leiser.
Louie’s life will be remembered for the genuine spirit, laughter, love, and giving heart he shared with so many. His legacy of kindness, enthusiasm, and tender heartedness for all will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know him.
Rest in peace, Louie. You will forever be deeply missed.
Visitation: Monday, October 21 from 5-7 pm at Braman Mortuary Millard Chapel, 6505 S. 144th St., Omaha, NE
Funeral Service: Tuesday, October 22 at 11 am at Countryside Community Church, 13130 Faith Plz, Omaha, NE
Interment: Evergreen Cemetery
To send flowers to the family in memory of Louie Daniel Connaghan, please visit our
flower store.