Mark Steven Conkright

Mark Steven Conkright (Steve) passed away peacefully on May 28, 2023, at the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy, IL. Steve was born April 9, 1949, in Pittsfield, IL to Gerald and Dorothyann Bartlett Conkright.

Steve called Pike County his home for most of his life. He graduated from Griggsville High School in 1967. He then went on to Spoon River College in Canton, IL where he attained an associate degree in Agricultural Business. He served a military term in the US Army. He was inducted on February 10, 1970. He was stationed in Korea for a year. He was also stationed in Alaska. After the Army, he joined the National Guard. While in the military, Steve was a Light Vehicle Specialist and a Chauffer. He completed his term as a SP4 on February 9, 1976.

During his early youth he was involved in sports, 4H, FFA, and farm life. He raised sheep and received numerous 4H blue ribbons. He also worked with and showed horses. As a young adult, Steve and his brothers raised and showed Arabians for several years. Steve worked with many youths teaching them to ride horses or coaching them in softball. Steve was a mechanic, a master carpenter, and an avid reader. He used to read the encyclopedias just for fun.

Steve worked for the City of Barry as a maintenance worker. He later became engaged in the Swine Management profession, doing this for most of his working career. Eventually he owned his own Swine production farm in Perry, MO. He lived in Perry and developed a second family of friends before returning to the Pike County area.

Steve was preceded in death by both of his parents and grandparents. He is survived by sister, Cathy (Melvin Jr.) Budd of Lacon, IL; brothers, Tracey (Peggy) Conkright of Pittsfield, IL, Aaron Conkright of Canton, MO and Galen (Cindy) Conkright of Barry, IL; Uncle Larry and Aunt Dee Bartlett of Arizona, Aunt Nancy Bartlett of Barry; and several cousins, nieces and nephews also survive.

Steve never knew a stranger. He liked to visit with anyone who had the time to share. He helped many youths gain new skills and met many people during his life. He leaves a legacy of friendship, compassion, caring, and thoughtfulness that made the world a better place.

Graveside services will be held Saturday, July 15, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Gray Cemetery in New Salem, IL. Memorials are suggested to be made to the American Legion (Pittsfield Post #152, Griggsville Post #213, Barry Post #222), Gray Cemetery or donor’s choice. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

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