Gary Conklin

Gary Conklin, aged 77, ascended to the great car show in the sky on October 1, 2024, after a daring battle that saw him go toe-to-toe with cancer. Born on October 10, 1946, in the bustling city of Philadelphia, PA, Gary was so good with technology that he could probably make a toaster run Windows 10. As a draftsman by trade, he mastered the art of creating blueprints and designs with the finesse of Michelangelo—if Michelangelo had worked with CAD software instead of chisels.

A proud veteran, Gary served in the United States Air Force from 1964 to 1968, where he likely honed his knack for fixing anything that could be fixed and perhaps even a few things that couldn't. His honorable discharge was a bit like winning the lottery, except it came with fewer confetti and better benefits.

Gary was not just tech-savvy; he was also a certified charmer. With a personality that was as warm as a freshly baked muffin from Panera (which he enjoyed every morning), he made friends faster than you can say “car show trophy.” His kind spirit paired with an ever-present sense of humor could brighten even the gloomiest of days—perfect for lifting spirits and the occasional car hood while restoring any and every vehicle he could get his hands on.

An avid comic book collector, Gary would lose himself in the pages of superheroes, making him practically a superhero himself—just instead of saving the world, he'd save old cars and take them to shows where he racked up awards like it was a new hobby. His proudest accomplishments list might as well have been titled "Gary’s Garage of Glory," complete with pictures of shiny cars and lots of medal bling.

Gary is predeceased by his father, Russell Conklin, and mother, Doris Walter. He leaves behind his sister, Kathleen Ross, and brother, Russell Conklin, two nieces, two nephews, and his beloved bonus brother, Al James. Gary was undoubtedly a caring man. With his passing, we remember a man whose spirit was indestructible, whose humor was unmatched, and whose presence will surely be missed—especially at Panera, where they might have to start charging extra for a Gary-sized coffee and muffin combo.

Gary will be laid to rest with his fellow Airman at Washington Crossing National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, PO Box 22324, New York, NY 10087 . Rest in peace, Gary. We hope it's a pit stop with lots of laughs and endless car shows.