John R. Conklin

John Robert Conklin, formerly of Arlington, MA, died suddenly of influenza in Fairfax Hospital, on February 14, 2013, after a long battle with lymphoma. John was born September 22, 1945 in Providence, RI, and grew up in Arlington, MA, where he was an outstanding student at Matignon High School, Boston College, and Suffolk Law School. He enjoyed a distinguished career as a Contract and Procurement Specialist with the US Government in the Pentagon, where he made lasting friendships and travelled the world representing the interests of the Department of the Army. He was a thoughtful and abundant giver of gifts, regardless of reason or season. He also gave generously of his time and talents in weekly charitable activities, and as an active member of the Knights of Columbus, and serving as a Board Member and President of several community associations. John was adventurous, and loved travelling, playing tennis and cards, gardening, vacationing at the ocean, and gathering for all special events with his scattered extended family no matter how distant the journey. He appreciated language and music as an avid reader and listener, and eloquent speaker and writer. He served faithfully as lector and singer at his Church, and found comfort and courage in his deep faith as through his years he overcame serious injuries and surgeries, and counted each day a blessing. John was the devoted husband of Roberta (Cain) Conklin. He was the cherished son of the late Milton and Mary (Tuohy) Conklin of Arlington, MA. Dear brother of Mick Conklin, (and Jean Fox), of Venice, FL and Bellingham, MA; Joan Conklin of Ashland, MA; and Maureen Dalton of Marlborough, MA. Loving uncle and godfather of John Dalton. Caring nephew of John Robert and Marilou Conklin of Binghamton, NY. He was close to cousins throughout the US and Ireland. We will miss him and we are grateful to God for his presence in our lives. Memorial services were held in Virginia.