Marian L. McConkey

Grove City woman had vast knowledge of town

Marian L. McConkey, known for her accurate knowledge of Grove City in its early days, died on Tuesday afternoon, April 29, 2008, in Trinity Living Center, Grove City. She was 99.

Miss McConkey was born on July 9, 1908, in Grove City. She was a daughter of Charles and Mary Craig McConkey.

A graduate of Grove City Area High School and Grove City College, she worked as a librarian for the college. Before that, Marian served in Borneo with the first wave of American Peace Corps volunteers.

Marian was also a house mother at a boy’s school. During World War II, she enjoyed her work as a machinist at Cooper Bessemer, Grove City. She later worked as a cook at Grove City College. In addition, Marian also headed the kitchen at summer Audubon camps, matching her interests in the outdoors and birding with her domestic sensibilities. She was also a Girl Scout leader for troops in Grove City during its early days.

Her ancestors were ministers with local Presbyterian churches, with which she had been affiliated. She enjoyed literature, music and history.

Marian will be remembered for her precise stories of the community and its early residents from her family recollections, which she generally shared with anyone who asked.

Among her survivors are: a cousin, James McDowell and his wife, Melva, Grove City; and close friends, Irene Dickenson, Gary Anaith and Ginger Jamison.

McCONKEY

Marian L., 99, Grove City.

Service: Private with arrangements by FICCA FUNERAL HOME, 203 E. Pine St., Grove City.