Joseph Thomas Conklin

Joseph (Joe) T Conklin of Chicago, IL passed away on Saturday October 23, 2021 in Chattanooga, TN. Joe was born on October 31, 1941 in Jersey City, NJ to Joseph and Mary (Weir) Conklin. After graduating from Marist College, Joe joined the Teacher Corp. He was a Social Studies Teacher in Indiana and Wyoming. After teaching for several years, Joe became an accountant and worked at Arthur Andersen in St. Charles, IL. After retiring from Arthur Andersen, Joe moved to Chicago, IL where he resided at the time of his death.

Throughout his life Joe was involved at the various churches he belonged to. He volunteered at Hessed House (a local homeless shelter) and taught English as a Second Language to adults who wished to learn English. Joe enjoyed hiking and traveling. Later in life, he became an active member of Asians and Friends and Primetimers.

Joe is survived by his life partner Curtis Tom. He is also survived by his former spouse Leslie (Hincher) Conklin, their Children Michael (Anita) Conklin and Erica (Randy) Wooten. Joe is survived by 5 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. He is also survived by his brother Robert Conklin, his sister-in-law Marybeth (Richard) Conklin and several nieces and nephews. Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Richard (Marybeth) Conklin.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the following charities with the links provided below:

American Diabetes Association

Covenanthouse

The memorial service and visitation will be at 2pm on November 7, 2021. The service will take place at Drake and Sons Funeral Home, 5303 N Western Avenue, Chicago, IL.