Key Takeaways
- Connor’s passing has left a deep void in the lives of his family, friends, and all who knew him.
- He was the son of Deb (Rueschhoff) and Darwin Bickford.
- Connor married his high school sweetheart, Grace Marie (Horvat) Bickford, on November 12, 2022.
Connor Bickford, a resident of Olathe, Kansas, passed away in the early morning of Wednesday, November 20th, 2024 at 26.
While the exact cause of his passing has not been provided yet, his loss has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of his family, friends, and all who knew him.
Those who loved Connor will always remember his vibrant spirit, infectious laughter, and compassionate heart.
Following his passing, tributes and condolences started to flood in. One tribute read:
Connor was a huge part of my recovery. I met him at an inpatient center and he inspired such hope in me and others. Whenever you had a bad day he was right there to cheer you up. He reminded me the importance of kindness. His smile will live on in all the lives he touched. Thank you for everything. He was deeply in love with his wife and he showed me that real love does exist just by how he talked of her. He lead Karoke on Sundays and showed me how to have fun again. He always was willing to help and be a friend. Even though I only knew him a short time, he inspired me and so many others just by being himself. I am grateful to have met him even for just a short while. I send healing thoughts and condolences to his family and wife and will miss him. I am forever thankful to have had the opportunity to meet such a kind soul. Rest in peace Connor.
Via Penwellgabelkc
Another tribute said:
Darwin and family, Prayers to all of you! There are no words to take away the pain, but I hope memories will help provide you with comfort.
Via Penwellgabelkc
A third tribute shared:
Dear Gracie, I remember Connor so vividly. He and I were at the Soccer watch party at St. John the Baptist Men’s club in KC, KS a couple of years ago., He and I had such a nice conversation about his love for you and what was going on in the Strawberry Hill area. He was such a handsome guy and was so interested in “my story”. I feel so privileged to have met him and talk with him. What a “ gentle man”. God bless you Connor and your sweet wife, Gracie.
Via Penwellgabelkc
Connor was born on February 27, 1998, in Topeka, Kansas, to his parents, Deb (Rueschhoff) and Darwin Bickford.
From the moment he was born, Connor became the light of his parents’ and siblings’ lives.
Growing up in Olathe alongside his older brother Jerad Bickford and older sister Lauren (Bickford) Fuentes, Connor, the youngest of the family, brought endless joy and unforgettable moments to those around him.
Connor’s infectious, goofball energy and joy touched everyone who crossed his path. One of the many lives he touched was that of his wife and high school sweetheart, Grace Marie (Horvat) Bickford.
Though they first met in high school, their friendship deepened during their senior year and eventually blossomed into a lasting relationship.
From high school to college, through the challenges of a global pandemic and a cross-country relationship, their love endured for nearly 10 years.
They sealed their union on November 12, 2022, when they married in Kansas City.
On Connor’s 27th birthday, his wife wrote:
Oh sweet Connor, you are right. No amount of time would’ve been enough and here I am aching for seconds. Choosing to push in today, for you, my birthday boy. On what would be your 27th — I will see your friends and coworkers. I will visit our spots. I will cuddle our pup. I will have dinner with your momma. I will say your name even though it sears. I will listen to your voicemails, read your notes, shuffle through thousands of photos through tear filled eyes and fogged glasses. I will laugh and smile too. I will miss you ceaselessly, with no forced distraction or interruption. It’s all I can do. Happy birthday, sunshine. I can’t wait to see you again.
Via Facebook
Connor’s heart was truly one of a kind—a precious gift to everyone he knew. Every day, he brought joy through his humour and his perfect, goofy smile. Even in the briefest moments, Connor made the world a better place.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Connor is preceded in de*th by his brother Jerad Lee Bickford, grandfather Clifford Bickford, and grandparents Day and Phyllis Rueschhoff.
He is also preceded in de*th by marriage to grandfather-in-law, Joseph ‘Joko’ Horvat, and grandparents-in-law, MaryLee ‘Grammie’ and Lloyd Dale ‘PawPaw’ Kientzy.
Connor is survived by his loving family, including his wife Grace, parents, siblings, many siblings-in-law, aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends.
Although Connor’s life was tragically short, his impact is undeniable. His kindness, love, and positivity will continue to resonate with everyone he touched.
Connor’s funeral service was held at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 16000 W 143rd St, Olathe, KS 66062, at 10:00 AM on November 27, 2024.
The service included a rosary, visitation, and funeral mass, followed by a burial at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens, 13901 Block Bob Road, Olathe, KS, where he was laid beside his brother.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Connor’s passions include longboarding, soccer, videography, science, cooking, Mario Kart, tiny cars, and cold plunging.
