He was born September 20, 1951 the son of Ray and Norma (Ross) Conkey. He attended Southeast High School followed by Southern Illinois University Carbondale where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in journalism. While there, he met his soulmate, Laurie Hann and they were married October 18, 1975 in Wheaton, IL.
Mike retired from the Illinois State Board of Education where he served as an IT specialist. He worked for various branches of the State of Illinois for 20 plus years. An avid golfer, he was a member of the Wednesday night golf league at Long Bridge in Springfield. Mike enjoyed all sports, especially baseball and was a diehard St. Louis Cardinals fan. He was a dedicated runner and competed in two half marathons, one in Springfield, the other with his brother in Wisconsin. Earlier in his life, Mike played on various softball teams at the Brown Bomber, now Long Bridge.
Mike loved music and attending live concerts. Some of his favorite artists included The Who, Jimmy Buffet and Bruce Springsteen among others. He could often be found strumming his guitar (self-taught) and could always be counted on to recite lyrics to just about any tune.
Mike is survived by his wife, Laurie, his three children: Jeffrey Conkey of Springfield, Jessica Conkey of Springfield and Joshua Conkey, all of Soulard, his four granddaughters, and his brother, Tim (Cindy) Conkey of Hartford, WI. His parents and a sister, Cynthia Hayes preceded him in death.
Cremation rites will be accorded.
A celebration of life memorial gathering will be held on Saturday June 19, 2021 from 4:00pm until 6:00pm at Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 Koke Mill Road. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society.
