Charles M. Conklin, 86, of Independence, died Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013.

In 1950, he began a career in interior and exterior design and decorating, general contract decorating, as well as owning and operating the retail Conklin Decorating Store in Independence until 1992.

He served as fire chief in Independence for 27 years and had served as president of the Buchanan County Fireman’s Association, Buchanan County Fire Chief’s Association, the Iowa Firefighters Association and the International Fire Chiefs Association (Missouri Division for 27 years).

Survivors include his wife, Audrey of Independence; five daughters; two sons; 17 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Carroll (Marian) Conklin of Independence.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Jeffrey Conklin; and one granddaughter, Audrey Fitzgerald.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the First Presbyterian Church, with burial at Mount Hope Cemetery. Visitation will be 2 to 8 p.m. today at White Funeral Home and an hour before services Thursday at the church.

Online Condolences may be made at www.White-MtHope.com.

Published in The Gazette Jan. 23, 2013.