Earl A. Conklin Jr.

Earl Conklin Jr., was born September 28, 1957, to Edith (Cross) Breakey and Earl Conklin Sr. in Monticello, NY. He passed away on May 22, 2026 in Rochester, NY surrounded by the reflections and memories of a life lived fully in its own way.

He was preceded in death by his mother Edith, father Earl Sr., sister Vonnie Sue, several aunts, uncles and cousins. He is survived by his daughter and long time caregiver Toni Heininger. His youngest son Jonathan Conklin. His grandsons Alexander (Katy Zimmerman) Heininger, Matthew Heininger and Derick Koen. His brother John Marinello and other family and friends who were with him for a season or a reason that he remembered and reflected on fondly at the end of his road.

At one point in his life he was able to find peace and happiness in hunting, fishing, and the quiet moments outdoors that came with them. He loved Randy Travis and Elvis Presley. But absolutely nothing brought him more joy or pride than his grandchildren. He loved telling stories about Alex and Matthew’s football success or betting friends they never knew someone who could run faster than Derick.

His life was not without hardship or complexity. But in the end, he reflected often on life, family, and the passage of time. Those who knew him will reflect on both his strengths and his struggles, and will remember him for the man he was.

He asked that we all remember that: “Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live.”

Cremation and services will take place privately at the request of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brighton Football Booster Club at 2604 Elmwood Ave Suite 231, Rochester NY 14618-2213 to help continue the legacy he believed his grandsons left and to help others have the same opportunities he believed helped his grandsons achieve greatness.