Howard B. Conk

Howard Conk was the second of eleven children born to John Henry Conk and Lucy Ann Bennett, both of New Jersey. The Conk family traveled west to join the Ira Eldredge Company with other members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wanting to go the Salt Lake Valley in Utah. The company left July 1.

When the family was just one day from entering the Salt Lake Valley, little Howard passed away and buried in “Parley’s Park.” The cause of death was described as “canker.” (Could have been a term for ulcerations.) Howard was the tenth and last death in the company's travels.

The journal of his father, John Henry Conk, is reads: “Sept 12 Travelled 5¾ h{.} nooned on Silver Creek Very pleasant Good Road. Afternoon 1¾ h and Camped astride Parleys Park.”

The company journal said: “Listed as tenth death in the trail notes of the company they came across the plains in, see father's notes for full record. #10. Howard R Conk; age 13 months 12 d; Country: America; Date and Place of Death: 12 Sept 61; Nature of Disease: Canker; Name of Father: John H[enry]. Conk; Maiden Name of Mother: Lucy A[nn] Bennett; Remarks: Buried Parley Park”