Connolly Oyler: 1-15-34 to 10-23-15
Connolly Oyler passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and friends, after a short illness on Oct. 23. He is survived by his wife, Michelle; his children, Leslie Oyler Burnett (Michael), Todd Oyler (Erin), Morgan Oyler and Caitlin Oyler; grandchildren, Alexa, Cameron, Acacia and Luci; and pets, Olive Oyler, Rico, Beanie and Enzo.
Connolly was born in Chicago to Byron Oyler and Esther Kamornick. The Oyler family moved to Los Angeles in 1938, settling in Eagle Rock for Connolly’s formative years. They moved to the Mid-City so Connolly could attend Farifax High School with his cousins.
After graduating Fairfax HS, Connolly attended UCLA, making life long friendships with fellow gymnasts and connections that remained until the end. Connolly attended Stanford University Law School for one year, transferring to USC School of Law to complete his legal education.
Connolly’s early legal years were spent in East Los Angeles working for Munnell, Mullendore, Peetris and Arguelles, followed by a few years at Mitchell, Silberberg and Knupp. He transitioned his offices to the Valley, concentrating on the practice of Family Law for the last 40 years. Connolly moved his practice to Santa Monica in the early 1990’s where he continued to give his clients “New Beginnings.” He loved his work.
Connolly was an active member of the Rotary Club of Santa Monica and the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. His past involvement included Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce, the JAYCEES, UCLA Alumni Association, UCLA Chancellor’s Associates, CA State Bar and Los Angeles Bar Family Law Section, Levitt & Quinn Family Law Services, Pepperdine School of Law Board of Visitors, and much more.
On a personal note, 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 Santa Monica and 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 awhile. 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, skied every opportunity he had, and loved 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.
