AUBURN — James E. Conkey, 73, of Wilton, died Wednesday, March 13, at the Hospice House, with his family at his side.

He was born June 25, 1939, in Springrield, Mass., a son of James and Florence (Talmadge) Conkey. He grew up and attended schools in Agawam, Mass., moving to Maine as a young man. He loved “The Pine Tree State,” calling it his second home. Mr. Conkey worked for the town of Strong for a period of time as well as Forster Manufacturing and worked for the Backus family maintaining their rental properties in the area.

He was an avid bowler and participated in many leagues and tournaments and was an avid NASCAR fan, never missing a weekend race and he always rooted for Dale Earnhardt Jr. On June 18, 1988, he married Evelyn Smith and they spent 33 wonderful years together. They enjoyed traveling and sight-seeing and took many trips together. Jim always looked forward to attending Fryeburg Fair each fall.

He is survived by his wife, Evelyn of Wilton; son, Everett of Wilton; daughter, Ann Marie Thomas of Westbrook; two stepsons, Gary Voter of Jay and Brian Moody of East Dixfield; two stepdaughters, Patty Thompson of Industry and Karen Leet of Loganville, Ga.; a sister, Florence Rochford of Agawam, Mass.; 11 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by a brother, Donald; and a great-granddaughter, Maci Conkey.

Condolences and tributes may be shared on his memorial wall at www.wilesrc.com.