Donald N. Conlklin

Donald N. Conklin, a devoted husband, father and steady presence in the lives of all who knew him,

passed away peacefully on March 19 at home surrounded by his family. Don was the consummate

gentleman and compassionate and kind leader, who carried a relentless curiosity of intellectual

endeavors.

Born in Chicago, IL, to Clement Conklin and Mary Appel Conklin, Don served in the U.S. Navy, graduated

from Northwestern University and pursued an MBA at University of Chicago. Don began a long career in

Human Resources, with General Foods Corp. (eventually Kraft General Foods) which took him around

the country until settling in Redding, CT in 1969. He was a faithful steward at the First Church of Christ

Congregational, serving as Deacon and passing on his belief and faith in humanity both professionally

and most importantly to his children.

Don remained a loyal Chicago sports fan, faithfully cheering on the Bears and Northwestern, and later the

Mets, with patience and humor. He loved music, reading and international travel, but his greatest joy was

simpler—time spent with family, especially gathered around the table with good food, laughter, and a

glass of wine.

Don is predeceased by his brother and is survived by the love of his life, wife Carol of Oxford, children

Neil Conklin, Kristi Reilly, Sandi Bergeron (Allen) and Erin Blackwelder (Ben); six beloved grandchildren

and two great-grandchildren. A father figure to his son-in-laws, Don was lovingly cared for by his

granddaughter Mallory.

Don’s humility and generosity will live on in our hearts—forever cherished, deeply missed, and a gentle

example we will carry with us always.

Memorial services will be private.