Richard L. "Dick" Conkright

1936 - 2016

Richard L. "Dick" Conkright

80, of Lafayette, IN passed away Saturday, November 26, 2016 of lung cancer. Dick was born on either September 27, (according to legal documents) or September 28 (according to his mother) 1936. We use September 28, 1936.

Dick is survived by his children, Marcia L. Crail of Rossville and Randy L. Conkright of Mulberry, and their mother, Martha Jeanne (Agnew) of Lafayette. Marcia's family includes son-in-law David; Granddaughter Kyla Beavens and husband Todd of Rossville; Grandson Casey of Chicago, IL; and Granddaughter Mary of Plymouth, MI. Randy's family includes daughter-in-law Becky; Grandson Jeremy, Great-Grandson Grady and Great-Granddaughter Hadley; and Grandson Nick, all of Lafayette.

Dick was a man with many interests. He loved sports, being outdoors, golf, and spending time with his family. He served in the USMC after graduating from West Lafayette High School, the middle of 9 children of Walter F. and Mary I. (Hays) Conkright. He played baseball as a young husband and father, and worked as a brakeman on the railroad. Later he worked several jobs in sales and eventually became a business owner when he purchased the Linnwood Tavern.

Many friendships were made through "The Wood" where people learned of his generosity and willingness to help someone out of a jam. Dick believed in second chances for people, and knew that none of us were perfect, and all of us would have difficult times. He was a true and loyal friend, brother, uncle, grandfather, and father.

Perhaps none received as much though, as we who knew him best. We had the privilege and honor to be among his family, a revered place in the Conkright tradition. Dick is preceded in death by four siblings, Eugene, Bill, and Roy Conkright and Doris Harris. He is survived by John D. Conkright of Belleville, IL; Jane Thompson of Lafayette; Sandy Etter of Fishers and Carol Higgs of Fishers. He is also survived by 17 nieces and nephews and his good friend and caregiver, Jean Hurst of West Lafayette.

Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m., with a memorial service beginning at 7 p.m., Tuesday, November 29, 2016 at Hippensteel Funeral Home. Celebrant Theresa Fischer officiating. In lieu of flowers or charitable donations, we ask that you simply help someone who needs it. Give them a ride, pay for their meal, or offer a shoulder or friendly ear. Pass it on. Share memories and condolences online at www.hippensteelfuneralservice.com.