Gerald R. "Jerry" Conklin's Obituary
Gerald R. “Jerry” Conklin, age 83, passed away Monday, January 18, 2021. He was born in Grand Rapids, MI on March 20, 1937 to Carroll and Anna (Sokolowski) Conklin and was raised by his father and step-mother, Louise. He professed his faith early in life at Unity Reformed Church. He was a dedicated employee of the Brunswick Corporation, where he worked his way up to becoming a quality inspector. He had a 44-year long career there before retiring in 1999. On August 22, 1958 he married the love of his life, the former Karen Grinwis in Muskegon, MI. Their love story started with a church youth group hayride and flourished into 62 years full of memories to cherish. Jerry and Karen enjoyed taking camping trips and bowling together. Jerry even bowled a league 300 game! He was a skilled chess player, traveling around the country participating in tournaments. Jerry was also a founder of the chess club in Muskegon and was a member of the U.S. Chess Association. He was known to be a quiet man with a strong work ethic that he engrained into his children. He will truly be missed by many. He is survived by his loving wife, Karen Conklin; 4 children, Sandra (Harold) Houseman, Pamela (Perry) Landes, Lori Reeves, and Jeffrey Conklin; 9 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and half-sister, Carol (Thomas) Davies. He is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Cheri Conklin; grandson, Aaron Horling; and half-sister, Janice Marshall. A private family service will be held. Memorial Contributions in Jerry’s honor can be made directly to Unity Reformed Church for the youth group. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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