Obituary of Donna L. Conklin

EDWARDS – Donna L. Conklin, age 91, of Edwards, passed away on June 24, 2024 at home under the care of her loving family and hospice. At her request there will be no services. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Edwards. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com. Donna was born on June 8, 1933 in Gouverneur to the late Edgar Paul and Emma (Hazelton) Shove. She graduated from Hammond Central School and married Arnold D. Conklin on June 26, 1954 in Rossie. Donna and Arnold owned and operated Arn-Don Farms in Black River for many years. After retiring from farming, Donna owned and operated a tractor trailer business. She made many trips to Las Vegas to visit her daughter and the casinos. In the early 80's they moved to Edwards, turning their hunting camp into their home. While there, Donna drove school bus for Edwards-Knox Central School for 20 years. Donna loved farming and being outdoors. She loved to hunt, fish, walk in the woods, ride her 4-wheeler, pick berries, and split wood. She enjoyed gardening and canning, and loved her chickens and cats. Time with family was spent playing cards and gambling; always made better when she won money from her grandchildren. She is survived by her husband of 70 years, Arnold Conklin, two children, Tina (Kevin) Weidner and June Johnson, brother Rodney (Joanne) Shove, sister, Patsy Brown, and half-brother, Gordon Hutton. She is also survived by 7 grandchildren, Bobbie Trudeau, Billie Jean Brown, Jayme Montressor, Jody Rowsam, Jennie Garza, Kyle Weidner and Craig Weidner, and 17 great-grandchildren. Donna is predeceased by her parents and a granddaughter, Brandie Rowsam. Donations in memory of Donna may be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley or your local animal shelter.