David Conklin

Age 64 of Sayre PA, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, December 2, 2017 with his loving family by his bedside. David was born in Elmira, son of the late Harold C. and Alice Lagene (Byrd) Conklin. He was also predeceased by his sister Martha L. Conklin. David is survived by his wife JoAnne C. Kizer; step-sons, John F. Kizer IV and James D. Kizer; sisters, Sally J. Rice and Rebecca J. Conklin; brother and sister-in-law, Charles B. and Mindy Conklin; mother-in-law Mary E. "Jean" Farley; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Michael and Cindy Farley, Jack and Margie Calaman, Elizabeth and Stephen Gonzales, Henry Farley, Patricia and Dick Meredith, William and Eileen Farley, Mark and Marylou Calaman, Richard Farley, Donald and Maggie Farley, Tom and Joy Calaman, Timothy Farley and Tami Farley; numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. David was a 1972 graduate of Southside High School. He earned his Bachelor's Degree from Elmira College and attended SUNY Cortland while working toward his Master's Degree. David was an outstanding athlete. He was a soccer player at Southside High School and was a member of the first male soccer team at Elmira College. He also played basketball at Elmira College. David started his working career as a teacher at Corning West High School. While there he coached girls' varsity basketball and softball. He then went to work as a Recreational Therapist for New York State in adult group homes, and then at the Lou Gossett Jr. Residential Center in Lansing NY. David again shifted his career and went to work at BOCES where he was an educational planner and teacher. After retiring from BOCES, David worked with his wife JoAnne in her real estate company. In recognition of his Native American heritage, David researched and provided the documentation needed to become a member of the Chickasaw Nation. He was also a member of the Quarry Glen Dinner Club. David was an avid Dallas Cowboy and New York Yankee fan. He enjoyed the time he could spend playing golf and entertaining at his lake home. David's greatest joy was just being there for family and friends. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water St., Elmira NY on Friday, December 8, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Those wishing may remember David with a donation to the Chemung County Humane Society and SPCA, 2435 State Route 352, Elmira NY 14903.