NORTH CANAAN — Raymond “Pete” Conklin, 89, of North Canaan, Connecticut, passed away on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026. He was born on March 10, 1937, in North Canaan, where he grew up and lived most of his life. As a boy, he spent countless hours with his grandparents in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. There, his grandmother worked as a cook for Norman Rockwell, and his grandfather taught him to fish and appreciate the outdoors.
After graduating from Housatonic Valley Regional High School (H.V.R.H.S.) in 1955, Pete joined the US Air Force, proudly serving for four years while stationed in Phoenix, Arizona. Following his service, he returned to Canaan and built a successful career as a mechanic and machinist, working at Becton-Dickinson and later the Torrington Company before retiring in 2002.
Pete lived a full life anchored by his deep love for the great outdoors. Whether tracking deer at dawn in the quiet woods with his friend Nick, chatting about their gun collections, or spending time at the shooting range, Pete found his truest peace outside. Though a man of few words, he possessed a big heart and endless patience—qualities that made him both a seasoned hunter and a loyal friend. He loved sharing stories about his past, and his quick wit always brought joy to those around him. Holidays with his family were among his favorite times, and he especially looked forward to all the food.
When Pete wasn’t outdoors, he enjoyed cooking and watching Westerns on TV. John Wayne and Clint Eastwood were his all time favorite stars. In the earlier days, Pete and Audrey would go out and enjoy dancing the jitterbug and waltzing the night away. He was an excellent dancer which very few people knew about him.
He is survived by his former wife and loving friend of over 50 years, Audrey Hartman; his best friend of 89 years, Nick Graf; his daughter by marriage, Sherrie Corban; his granddaughters, Jennifer Corban Woods (David) and Samantha Corban; his great-grandchildren, Nicolette Corban and Mason Collins; and his great-great-granddaughter, Evangeline Zahm. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert R. Conklin and Ethel Elizabeth Blackwell Conklin, and his sister, Dorothy “Dot” M. Conklin.
The family will hold a private gathering following cremation to celebrate his life. He will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Pete’s name to the Action Wildlife Foundation in Goshen, CT.
