Obituary of John R Conley

John R. Conley, 93, of Berrien Springs, formally of Wisconsin and retired to New Mexico passed away Friday January 24, 2014 at Loving Care Home. He was born to the late John and Phoebe (Burnham) Conley in Madison, Wisconsin on November 27, 1920. After graduation he enlisted and served his country proudly in the United States Navy aboard the USS Haven during WW II as a pharmacist mate. His hospital ship, The USS Haven took him to the South Pacific and he was present at many of the battles including Nagasaki and Iwo Jima. While in the Navy, he met a young woman who stole his heart. He asked Virginia Winans for her hand in marriage and on May 17, 1947 John wed Virginia at a ceremony in New York. Virginia passed away just shy of their 50th wedding anniversary. John once again found companionship and love and on August 20, 1999 he wed the former Allene Houston. John was a man who found enjoyment in the simple things in life. He had a special place in his heart for the many German shepherds he raised. John took great pride in his vehicles, and spent time making sure they well maintained. Current events were of great interest to John and he diligently followed the news. He was known as a very hardworking man, who worked two full time jobs. He loved his family. He is preceded by his parents and his first wife Virginia. John is survived by his second wife, Allene Houston-Conley of Carlsbad, New Mexico, and his two daughters. Meg (Ed) Serafino of Galien, Michigan and Bonnie Conley of Tampa, Florida. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of John may do so to the Pet Refuge 4626 S. Burnett Drive, South Bend, IN 46614. Visitation for John will be on Thursday, January 30, 2014 from 4-6 pm with service beginning at 6 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home, Niles. He will be interred next to Virginia at South Park Cemetery, in Roswell, New Mexico on February 3, 2014.