KONKLE, Gary Lorne – Passed away peacefully in his sleep at the Woolcott Wing of the Welland General Hospital, on Saturday, July 16, 2022, at the age of 85. Predeceased by his beloved wife Joan Marie “Sherrie” Konkle (September 8, 2021) and son Brett Konkle (October 17, 2021). Loving father of Cheryl Konkle, Karen (Ben) Pare, and Lori (Blaine) Murawski. Caring grandfather of Blaine “BJ“ Murawski Jr. (Sylvia), Carrie Murawski and Dylan Pare. Dear brother of Ray (Pat) Konkle and Linda (Sharon) Konkle and brother-in-law of Sheila Konkle. Fondly remembered by many friends and extended family. Predeceased by parents; Earl and Thelma and brother Norman.
Gary worked at C.H.C.V. Radio Station, which involved travelling to hockey games where he did the remote operations alongside the sports announcer. He was a Chemical Engineer for Cyanamid on Garner Road, Niagara Falls for 36 years, retiring in 1993. Gary was a proud member of the Niagara Antique Power Association in Sherkston, his many areas of expertise were of great assistance with his involvement at the Kramer Blacksmith Shop, the Sawmill Demonstrations, and restoring antique motors. In father’s final days while in the Woolcott Wing at the Welland Hospital, he was a very proud member. He cut the advertisement out of the paper for the N.A.P.A. and hung it on his door for all of the nurses, PSW’s, staff and patients to see. They would talk to dad about the 50th year anniversary. He would give them directions and tell them about the shows they would see when they attended the event. Gary organized the Friends of Morningstar Mill in 1992. The Friends of Morningstar Mill was a volunteer group in St. Catharines that were committed to preserving the historic Morningstar Mill Site and interpreting its rich history and restoring and maintaining this landmark which is located at 2714 Decew Road. It was noted that without Gary this museum would probably not even exist today. In 1992 Gary went to the council of the City of St. Catharines and got permission to restore this wonderful mill and all of its buildings. At that time, it was almost totally lost to us all. Along with the many Friends of Morningstar Mill and the John Howard Society he and they have restored a very important part of our industrial heritage for everyone to see. Us three daughters and our spouses and children have so many fond memories with our dad, he was a caring hardworking, excellent provider and best of all taught us about life responsibility and the importance of family and being there for each other. He was very proud of all of his family’s accomplishments as we were his. Our memories of our dad, at the cottage, fairs, company and family picnics will be with us forever. Our most precious memories were watching our dad at N.A.P.A. when he helped operate the Blacksmith Shop and Sawmill. Every Sunday we would go to the Morningstar Mill. We were there when the Mill became operational. My dad was hands on and the children we brought that day were put to work. Since in my dad’s words, “you learn and appreciate by doing.” As sad as it is losing our father and the ache within our hearts that will never go away, we know our parents are together again with our brother Brett. This gives us peace. Love you forever, your three daughters, sons-in-law and grandchildren.
A private family graveside service will be held on Friday July 22, 2022 at Lundy’s Lane Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, those who wish may make a memorial donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. Arrangements in the care of MORSE & SON FUNERAL HOME, 5917 Main Street, Niagara Falls.
Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.morseandson.com
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Gary Lorne Konkle Saturday July 16th 2022..
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Death notice for the town of: Niagara-Falls, Province: Ontario