Obituary of Kevin Jerome Conklin

Kevin Conklin

On May 8, 2025, Kevin J. Conklin, 59, a resident of Fairfield, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was a man who truly embodied the phrase Carpe Diem, embracing every day with gratitude, energy, and heart.

Kevin was born with an appreciation for life and a deep curiosity about people and the world around him. He earned his bachelor's degree in Psychology from SUNY Oneonta in 1987 and later received his master's in Industrial Psychology from Springfield College. His passion for human potential and growth shaped both his professional and personal life.

After traveling around the world and collecting stories, experiences, and friendships along the way, Kevin found both love and purpose. Shortly after, he met his beautiful wife, Emily, while living in Hoboken, New Jersey. His charm and optimistic view on life, combined with Emily's selflessness and nurturing heart, created a marriage full of love, laughter, and unwavering support.

Kevin solidified his professional career at BayGroup, where his hard work, intelligence, and charisma helped him become a respected business leader and top salesman. However, his greatest roles were those of a husband, father, and coach.

Together, Kevin and Emily raised three remarkable children: Jason, Andrew, and Lily. Kevin poured his heart into being an incredible dad. Whether coaching on the sidelines, enjoying the beach, or telling one of his unforgettable stories, Kevin made sure his kids felt seen, loved, and encouraged to chase their dreams.

A natural leader and motivator, Kevin also co-founded InspireMyKids, a platform dedicated to sharing uplifting stories to help young people find direction. His commitment to making a difference lived in every conversation he had, every game he coached, and every friend he made.

Taking after his late mother, Joan, he loved the outdoors, always needing to be outside on a nice day. By biking, camping, playing sports, or even just taking a respite, Kevin followed in her footsteps. A movie lover, competitor, and a brownie sundae connoisseur, Kevin brought an infectious energy that made every moment with him feel like a memory in the making.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and inspiration. Kevin taught us how to live fully, love deeply, and never waste a beautiful day. He will be missed beyond measure and remembered always.

He is survived by his caring wife of 27 years, Emily C. Conklin; his three children Jason M. Conklin (23), Andrew W. H. Conklin (21) and Lily M. Conklin (18); his father, Walter J. Conklin; his sister, Christine Zidik; brother-in-law, John Zidik; his niece and nephew, Rebecca A. Zidik (31); Christopher J. Zidik (26) and many loving relatives.

He is predeceased by his mother, Joan Conklin, whom he cherished, on February 11, 2020, at the age of 79.

The family will hold a wake at Lesko Funeral Home, 1209 Post Road, Fairfield Center, on June 8, 2025, from 2 to 6 p.m. Kevin touched the lives of many, and all are welcome to attend and show their support.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Project Purple, www.projectpurple.org, or Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, pancan.org.

For travel directions or to leave Kevin an online condolence, please visit www.LeskoFuneralHome.com.