Roger W Conklin, 95, a life-long resident of Wood County, died July 11, 2016. Two years ago, mobility issues forced him into reluctant retirement. Until then, he lived the life he loved, focused on family, farming, flying, and fishing. Until her illness and death, his wife Bernice was his partner on the farm and in the cockpit of their plane. They piloted their Cessnas across the US and Canada, flying as far south as Costa Rica and north of the Arctic Circle in Alaska. Today, their son Gary continues operating the fifth generation family farm, which began with his great-great-grandfather, in 1868.
During World War II, Roger was stationed with the US Army, in the Philippines. His passion for aviation encompassed aircraft restoration – winter projects with his son – and he served as past-president of the Ohio Chapter of the International Flying Farmers. Roger was a former member of the Board of Directors of The Andersons, in Maumee, and Board President of the Tontogany Farmers Association. He was also a member of Plain Congregational Church.
Roger is survived by his son Gary (Ann) Conklin of Weston, OH, daughter, Dr. Colleen Braun of Calgary, Alberta, three granddaughters, one step granddaughter, one great-granddaughter, five great-grandsons and one step great grandson.
A celebration of Roger’s life will begin Friday, July 15, 2016 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12 noon at Plain Congregational Church. Interment will follow at Wood County Memory Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be given in his memory to the church, Alzheimer’s Society or the American Cancer Society, organizations that were meaningful to Roger and other family members. Condolences or shared memories can be forwarded through dunnfuneralhome.com.
The family wishes to acknowledge Roger’s friends and neighbors across the state, around the country, and on the shores of Bright Lake, Ontario, all of whom have so enriched his life. We thank the staff of Wood Haven for their compassionate care and support during Roger’s final days.
