James Conklin
James Conklin was a Vietnam veteran, father, husband and a man who loved animals. He is dearly missed by his family and loved ones.
James Conklin, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend passed away Feb. 23, 2024, at age 81 at Virginia Mason Hospital in Seattle.
Born and raised in Omak, Wash., he served in the Air Force, reenlisted in the Navy and was assigned to an Army unit in Vietnam. During his service, he married his first wife, Marie, and had a daughter, Candace.
Upon discharge, Jim met Joyce Notaras and began a 57-year adventure including daughter Nina — living in 14 cities and visiting 45 states.
Jim wore many hats including property management, rehab, construction, consultant, store owner and handyman. After returning to Soap Lake, Jim worked for Joyce’s family’s business handling maintenance, consulting and many local events. Jim enjoyed fishing, gardening, woodwork and sat still only for football. He adored animals and they adored him.
Jim was preceded in death by parents Earwin and Reta Conklin, sisters Vera Stribling (Bill), Mina Picard (Johnny), Jesse Barnes (Wayne), Gladys Nelson (Harold), Bonnie Buchanan (Bob) and daughter Candace Conklin.
Jim is survived by his wife, Joyce, daughter Nina Whitmore (Jim), sister Judy Buchanan (Bob, deceased), grandchildren Josh, Justin, Jeremy Van Brunt and Jessica Davis (Chris), six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
No public service is planned, friends may wish to honor Jim by donating to their favorite animal shelter.