George Conklin Obituary

George E. Conklin II, 64, died September 1, 2024, in Lake City, Florida, after a courageous battle with cancer.
He is survived by his wife, Karen (Scheiner) Conklin; daughters Jessica F. Conklin and her husband, Andrew Kaufman, and Anna J. Conklin; granddaughters Maya A. Debose and Mackenzie Conklin-Kaufman, all of Gainesville, Florida; sister Honor Conklin, Albany, New York; nephew Jason Coughlin and his spouse, Arthur James Whitley, of Raleigh, North Carolina.
He is predeceased by his parents, George E. and Dorothy (Cobb) Conklin; a sister Amanda C. Conklin.
He was born on November 7, 1959, in Binghamton, New York. He was an active Boy Scout and soccer player. He graduated from Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, where he received a Bachelor of Science. He received a Master of Military Arts and Science from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Leavenworth, Kansas.
His professional career included service in the United States Army, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. That was followed by employment at Booz Allen Hamilton, retiring as a Principal.
He was blessed with lifelong friendships, many of whom travelled to say their goodbyes in his final days.
He travelled the world with his wife, Karen, from Alaska to Antarctica and Europe. He was the staple for his extended family. A safety net in all respects, giving to others a security which wasn't always given to him as a child. Although, those times had their moments. His sister recalls he was the "Eloise" of the Sheraton Inn in Binghamton, New York, running through the lobby as a six-year-old and bopping into the bar for a glass of orange juice. He could find humor everywhere.
The highlights of his last years were his granddaughters, Maya and Mackenzie, from walks to the turtle pond and a final gift of a Disney Cruise. They brought him immense joy during his most challenging times.
It was a life of accomplishment, love and resilience. He was denied longevity but will come to rest in Arlington National Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to The Prostate Cancer Foundation.
Crevasse's Simple Cremation is honored to serve the Conklin family.