Raymond George Conklin

Cottage Grove-Raymond G. Conklin, age 91, passed away at home with his family and devoted caregivers by his side on Friday, January 30, 2015. Ray will be remembered for his contagious smile and shining blue eyes that melted everyone's heart, and his winks that let everyone share in his playful mischief. He was born on April 20, 1923, in Oregon, WI, the son of George and Beulah (Johnson) Conklin. Ray was a veteran of WWII, proudly serving with the 509th PIB at Anzio and the Battle of the Bulge, for which he received the Purple Heart and numerous other medals. He and Beverly Smail were united in marriage in 1946, and were devoted companions for the next 68 years. Ray was a custodian at Glendale Elementary School, retiring in 1985. He was loved by generations of Glendale students who frequently stopped him on the street, even many years after their graduation. Ray was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, DAV, the 509th PIB Assn., the Badger State Chapter of the 82nd Airborne Assn., and the American Legion Post 248. In 2010, Ray was thrilled to be part of the inaugural Badger Honor Flight. He was dedicated to his family and enjoyed caring for those closest to him. In addition to his wife Beverly, survivors include his son David (Eileen), daughter Ann (Jim) Ivey, grandchildren Shilah Conklin and Ben (Karin) Conklin, great-granddaughter Courtney Conklin, niece Kathi Schroeder, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Sharon, sister Katherine Sullivan, and two brothers Ralph and Franklin. Special thanks to caregivers Lexi, Morgan, Patty, Emily, Dee, Jackie, Dr. Paul Wertsch and all of the Wildwood Family Clinic staff. Funeral services will be held at TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 1123 Vilas Ave, Madison, on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015, at 11:30am with Rev. Breanna Dahl presiding. Visitation will be at the church from 10:30am until the time of service on Wednesday. Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Trinity United Methodist Church, Badger Honor Flight or Heartland Hospice. For online condolences, please visit www.gundersonfh.com Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Dr. (608) 221-5420