Richard Lee Conkling

RICHARD "DICK"CONKLING SR. Richard "Dick" Conkling Sr. of Roeland Park, KS died on April 7, 2016, at St. Luke’s Hospital surrounded by family. Those who knew Dick will remember his humor, creative phone messages, and light-hearted pranks. Dick was an idea man. He could see the big picture. Often his creations were so grandiose, others would doubt the outcome. His children played in clubhouses that he built. He restored and rebuilt antique furniture. For many, Dick will be remembered as Santa. He believed his greatest accomplishment was envisioning, designing and building two sleighs, used for Santa performances around town, bringing joy to many children and families for decades. He loved big hugs from small children, driving his sleigh down the open road, and promoting merriment year around. His family will never forget his laughter, his hugs, and his unconditional love. Dick was born on October 28, 1944 in KCK. He attended Westport and SW High Schools in KC, MO before serving two enlistments in the US Navy, stationed first in Key West, FL and then Kodiak, AK before traveling the world aboard the USS Duluth. Dick married the love of his life, Helen Jones, on December 28, 1974 and was employed in the graphic arts industry for most of his life, working at Trabon Printing from 1998 until his retirement. Dick is survived by his wife, Helen; four children, Richard "Rick" Conkling, Jr. (Sarah), Jason Conkling (Patricia), Jennifer Bates and Melissa Castillo (Carlos); his brother Jim, and niece Shelly Gangi (Matt). He delighted in his five grandchildren and one great-grand. Visitation will be 6-8 PM Tuesday April 12 at Maple Hill Funeral Home. Services will be 10 AM., Wednesday at the chapel. Burial will follow services at Maple Hill Cemetery. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Dick's life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions either to Santa-America (a national non-profit delivering Love, Hope, and Joy to children in Hospice care, www.santa-america.org) or to The Elves of Christmas Present, P.O. Box 3535, Olathe, KS 66063 (a local charity delivering experiential gifts to children in need in the Kansas City area). We still hear your sleigh bells, Dick, and we believe.

Tributes

Richard Lee Conkling

October 28, 1944 - April 7, 2016