Theresa Anne Conklin

CONKLIN, Theresa Anne (Oliver)

1967 - 2022

Theresa went to be with Jesus on July 13 at the age of 54. Theresa was born in Kingston, Ontario on November 8, 1967. She grew up on the family farm in Petworth, Ontario, where she learned to love the country life. After high school Theresa spent a year in Spain where she learned the language and made many friends. Upon her return she attended Guelph University obtaining her Honours B.A. She had spent her third year in Spain again immersed in the language and culture where she honed her Spanish. This was followed by attending Western Ontario University for her teaching degree.

In the early 90's Theresa gave her life to the LORD and from that point on she was dedicated to loving God and loving people. She was called to the mission field and ended up on Mercy Ships ministering in Central America where her Spanish skills were put to God's use. There she met Kathia Montes and they bonded over their mutual heart for the people.  In the years that followed she developed many close friendships with people who spoke Spanish and was able to offer prayer and encouragement in their native tongue.

Theresa was also a valuable and much loved member of any Church family she was involved in. Her infectious laugh, her willingness to serve, and her ability to lead the worship or bring a message was always appreciated. She had a real gift of hospitality and was always ready to welcome people into her life.

Theresa moved west to Olds with her family in 2002 where she met and married Ian Conklin in 2006 and became Nana T. Theresa contributed to the family businesses by creatively writing copy and commercials for websites and by helping to manage and renovate the boarding house. Mostly she enjoyed getting to know the people that made the boarding house their home.

 All of Theresa's employment opportunities enabled her to become a masterful "Jill of All Trades". She could renovate, decorate, and paint while still using her teaching skills to instruct in Spanish and English.

Theresa had many and varied interests. She loved her garden and hot sunny weather. She would head to a beach to take in the rays and read and could see herself living in Mexico full-time. She enjoyed playing her keyboard and had a real appreciation for music. Her favourites ranged from Christian contemporary and hymns to country to the Eagles and ABBA. Theresa enjoyed horseback riding and her passion for rodeo had her visiting small towns all over Alberta.

After her marriage ended, Theresa completed her Registered Massage Therapist Certification in 2018 and started her practice. Through her hard work and dedication she excelled in her craft and really found her niche. She will be sorely missed by her patients and fellow workers.

Theresa leaves behind to mourn her mother, Margaret Oliver; exhusband, Ian Conklin; grandchildren, Grace, Isabel, and Olivia; brother Andrew (Marlene); and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father, Jim Oliver and both sets of grandparents.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to New Hope Fellowship indicating for Kathia Montes, Missionary in Costa Rica, 5014 - 49 Street, Olds, AB, T4H 1H3.