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Helen 'Candy Grandma' Conklin, 79, Westchester Business Owner

Westchester business owner Helen E. Conklin aka “Candy Grandma,” died Sunday at the Eleanor in Hyde Park at the age of 79.

Helen Conklin

Helen Conklin

Photo Credit: Contributed

Conklin was born in Peekskill in 1938 to Gladys and Fred Conklin, who predeceased her, along with her brothers Jimmy and Elmer and sisters Marie and Charlotte.

Conklin was the proprietor of two small businesses, a candy store and a variety store in Peekskill in the 1970s. She enjoyed drawing and painting, watching horse races, caring for her house plants and the beautiful voice of Andrea Bocelli. 

She is survived by her children Debbie Lockwood, Vincent Fonti and David Fonti; her grandchildren Robert Lockwood and wife Amber, Stephanie Canute and husband Caleb, Kevin Fonti and Dakota Fonti and her great-grandchildren Olivia, Declan, Scarlett and Tommy. 

Her family said she will be remembered for her sneaking candy to little ones, her laugh, wisecracks, stories and devoted following of the Farmer's Almanac.

Calling hours are 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday at Wm. G Miller and Son Funeral Home, 371 Hooker Ave in Poughkeepsie. Services will be at 7 p.m.in the funeral home. 

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Anyone wishing to send an online condolence or need directions, visit  www.wmgmillerfuneralhome.com

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