Dave Conklin, 69, born in West Nyack, New York, a 27-year resident of Otis, unexpectedly passed on from this world with his loving wife Kathleen Burke Conklin beside him on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Bay State Hospital in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Dave was a kind and gentle soul who was a good friend to those he knew and even those he just met. He had been described by many as being the most selfless, kind, creative, talented, caring, honest, loving, amazing human with a sense of humor and a passion for life and love.

Dave was always full of life and always creating something. He loved learning and sharing knowledge with those who wanted to learn. His love of animals, nature and always finding the good in people was shared with everyone he knew.

Dave had many interests and passions: chess, riding, music, writing, art, gardening, remodeling his home, snow sculptures, ice sculptures, and what most will remember was his talent for chainsaw carving. His carvings are everywhere, his wood spirits, fish, dragons, owls, lighthouses, bears, bird houses, benches, and so much more can be found all over Otis, Sandisfield, and beyond.

To his wife, he was her man, husband of 23 years, king of the mountain, the true love of her life. Dave loved all his family unconditionally. Even when the chips were down, Dave always supported his family and friends.

Dave was predeceased by his father, Arthur Conklin and his brother Andrew Conklin.

Dave is survived by his wife, Kathleen Burke Conklin of Otis, Massachusetts, his mother Audrey Conklin of West Nyack, New York, his two sisters Joy Conklin (Tim) of Raymond, Maine, Katherine & Kevan Brooks of Middletown, New York, his four brothers Michael Conklin and Peter Conklin, both of West Nyack, Arthur & Sally Conklin of Arlington, Virginia, and Timothy & Peggy Conklin of Middletown, New York, his son David Conklin (& Heather) of Milford, Pennsylvania, his step-son David Wilkinson & fiance Katrina of Sandisfield, two grandchildren, Macayla and Darin, and many nieces and nephews. Special friends Clayton, Angel, Charles & Terry. And of course, his pups, Cooper, Luna & Dudley. Words cannot express how missed he will be by so many.

After retiring from the phone company, where he started as a switchboard operator in his 20's, he acquired his contractor's license and worked as a handyman for many in the area. Dave volunteered his time locally at the Veteran's Home in Sandisfield, the New Boston Church, the Otis Library, the Berkshire Humane Society, and served on the Otis Conservation Commission for a time as well.

A Celebration of Life was held on September 26, 2026, at the American Legion Post 456, in Sandisfield. The dress was to be casual, and attendees were invited to bring a dish and a memory to share.

To honor Dave's generous spirit, the family kindly requests that, instead of flowers, donations be made to Berkshire Humane Society, an organization close to his heart. www.BerkshireHumane.org.