Kenneth R. Conklin

Kenneth R. Conklin, age 89, of Horseheads, NY passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, July 1, 2017 at Schuyler Hospital. He was born on November 1st, 1927 in Elmira, NY, son of the late LeRoy and Mida (Combs) Conklin. Ken is predeceased by his wife of over 70 years, the love of his life, Pearl E. (Frutchey) Conklin; brothers, Lee and Jim Conklin; and sister, Sandy Conklin. Ken is survived by his three children, Connie (Eric) Westmiller of Ithaca, Linda (David) Bennett of Elmira, and Kenneth R. Conklin II of Ithaca; loving sister, Judy (Robert) Smith; several nieces and nephews; and his dog “Rusty”. He had ten grandchildren, Robert (Kara) Jankowski, New Hampshire, Michael Jankowski, North Carolina, Heidi (Damian) Saks, Horseheads, Eric Bennett, Elmira, Jeremy Conklin, Katherine (Ian) Marsh, Meggan Conklin, Timothy Jankowski, Chad Westmiller and Brittany Westmiller all of Ithaca. He had several great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren. Ken was employed at Blanchard-Hewitt Dry Cleaners for many years and retired from Anchor Glass after over 20 years of service. Through the years he was a member of the VFW, The Sons of the American Vets, Elmira Eagles Club, Ukrainian Club and a lifetime member of the Elks Club and a Patron of the Glasshouse. Ken was a hard worker, he always gave his family all they ever wanted. He loved to fish, party and socialize with all of his family and friends. Ken was loved by many, wherever he went he always greeted everyone with a hug. He truly enjoyed family gatherings at his house. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend who will be dearly missed. As per Ken’s wishes, in lieu of flowers and contributions please go have a night out on the town and have a drink in honor of Ken and Pearl. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, July 6, 2017 from 12 PM to 2 PM with a funeral service to follow at 2 PM at Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Avenue, Elmira, NY. Burial will be in St. Mary Our Mother Cemetery, Horseheads, NY. Ken’s tribute wall may be signed at www.olthof.com.