Obituary

Vera Conkey of Avondale, Arizona died October 22, 2022 at the age of 90 years. She was born on January 28, 1932 in Des Moines, Iowa to Ivan Miller and Mable (nee Grimm) Miller. She was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Walter Conkey and grandson, Christopher Rice. She is survived by her daughters, Peggy (Jamie) Helminiak, Robin Rice, and Jeri (Richard) Burns; son Brian Conkey; sister, Jane Miller; eight grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
Vera was born and raised in Des Moine, Iowa. She married Walter Conkey on June 25, 1950. They were married for 39 years before his passing in 1989. Together, they raised four children; three daughters and a son. Vera moved to Arizona in 1999. Vera was a loving wife, mother, and friend. She never met a stranger and was known by all to be a respectful (but still sassy) and sweet lady.
Vera lived a full life. She was a great cook, but her best recipes were hot fudge pudding and shepherd’s pie. She worked at both venues for the Arizona Coyotes and Diamondbacks. She also volunteered at Banner Estrella and at hospitals in California before then. Vera spent her free time bowling in several leagues over the years, working crossword puzzles, and watching the lightning displays during storms. What Vera really loved though was travelling. She enjoyed long trips in an RV and managed to travel to all 50 states. Her daughters Peggy and Robin went on a trip to Europe with her as well.
She loved her family and was always present in her children’s lives. In fact, her proudest achievement were her children, eight grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. Vera was known to be very caring and loving, but also feisty and independent. She had a great sense of humor and had a feisty personality.
A service will be held at 2PM, Saturday, November 5 at Avondale Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Avondale Baptist Church.