More than 1,500 people gathered at a church on Chicago’s Northwest Side Saturday to celebrate the life of a United States Marine who was killed in Afghanistan.
“Cpl. Connor T. Lowry was brave and bold,” said his brother, Brian Lavin during his eulogy. “He became a leader of men who took care of the Marines."
Lowry, 24, was killed last week in Afghanistan amid the rising attacks on American military personnel. Lowry's body arrived at Midway Airport Friday morning, and a procession led him to St. John Fisher Parish at 103rd and Washtenaw on Chicago's Southwest Side
Governor Pat Quinn was among those who attended the funeral service which began at 10 a.m.
Lowry’s sister Grace Lavin also gave a eulogy talking about how her brother always did a great job of letting her know he loved her.
"He will forever live on though as the charming young man he was," she said.
During the ceremony, Brian Lavin said that Lowry’s mother Modie Lavin would cut the ribbon at Sunday’s South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade in honor of the fallen Marine.
"Connor was a very proud South Side Irish man, and he would be so happy to know that he is being honored at this year's parade."
His mother will start the parade and the march alongside with Lowry’s friends.
Lavin ended his eulogy with a line from the Marine Corps hymn.
“If the Army and the Navy ever look at heaven’s scene, they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marine. Keep the streets of heaven safe and say hello to everyone. We will miss you greatly. You will be in our hearts forever.”
