Richard "Rick" Conklin

Nov 26, 1955 -

Aug 15, 2022

Longtime Alaska resident Rick Conklin, age 66, passed away on Aug. 15, 2022, at his residence. Rick was born on Nov. 26, 1955, and achieved his lifelong dream of living in Alaska when he was stationed in Fort Richardson, Alaska. He was part of Bravo Company 4th – 23rd 172nd Infantry Brigade where he earned the Expert Infantryman Badge on his first attempt. Upon his honorable discharge from the military, Rick chose to make Alaska his home for life. Rick used his love of being in the outdoors and combined it with the skills learned in the Army to become the tough adventurer who never tired of exploring Alaska.

Rick is survived by his wife of 48 years, Debbie; as well as his children, Jennifer and Rick Jr. (Julie). He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Kit "the Bug" Wilson, Olivia "Boo" Wilson, Caden and Delanie Conklin. Once Rick became a grandfather, he was known by all as "Pop." Rick is also survived by his siblings, Bob (Jeanne) Conklin of Fort Myers, Fla., Jeff (Judy) Conklin of Norwich, N.Y., and Jodi (Steve Chastain) Gallagher of Binghamton, N.Y.; sister-in-law, Karen (Mike) Vavra of Eagle River, Alaska; brothers-in-law, John (Sue Stradling) Bolles of Hamilton, N.Y. and Michael (Jill) Bolles of Binghamton.

Although he had a tough exterior, he had a soft and good heart and had the biggest, heartiest laugh that drew people to him. In addition to his family, Rick leaves behind many friends who shared his love of, and participated in, his many wild adventures.

A private memorial service with military funeral honors will be held at Fort Richardson at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the ASPCA to honor Rick's love of animals.