Barden A. Conroe

February 14, 1928 – October 8, 2026

Barden (Bard) A. Conroe (98) of Painted Post, N.Y. died peacefully on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA.

Bard was born February 14, 1928 in Hornell, N.Y. to Irwin A. and Frances B. Conroe. He graduated from Bethlehem High School, Delmar N.Y. in 1946. Upon graduation, Bard enlisted in the Army serving as a T5 Ordnance and Electric Repair during the WWII Occupation of Japan, from July 1946 – December 1947. Upon his return to the U.S., Bard enrolled in Alfred University College of Ceramics as an engineer where he met and courted the prettiest nursing student on campus. He graduated from AU in1952. On June 6, 1953, he married the love of his life, Josephine Perry at the Methodist Church in Addison, N.Y. The two shared 64 wonderful years together.

Bard worked for Corning, Inc. in Corning N.Y. as an engineer for 14 years, 9 of which were in Corning N.Y., and then around the country from 1961 – 1966. In the fall of 1966, Bard proudly became the 4 th engineer for Welch Allyn, Inc. Skaneateles, N.Y. working in Research and Development for 27 years retiring in 1993. Outside of work, Bard was active in the First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles’ church choir, singing until he was well into his 90’s. He and Jody also enjoyed singing in the Masterworks Chorale for over 25 years. Bard was a Boy Scout Troop leader for many years in the 1970’s. In his later years, Bard became a member of the Skaneateles Legion Post 239, and Syracuse Honor Flight, serving as an Honor Flight Ambassador and Committee member for outreach to Veterans. Bard was also known as a passionate artist, painting with oils and acrylics. Bard was also a member of the University Lodge Masons organization, Alfred-Almond N.Y., and recently recognized for 75 years of membership.

Bard is survived by his children, Perry Conroe (Geeta) of Clermont, FL, Connie E. Beall (Greg) of Addison N.Y., and Shelley Andrade of Skaneateles; six beloved grandchildren: Christine, Natalie, Monica, Curt (Laurel), Alexandra (Ryan) and Bre (Collin); 5 great grandchildren: Rosalina, Tristan, Juliette, Liam and Chase; and his brother Bruce A. Conroe of Saratoga Springs N.Y. as well as many Reagan, Smith and Conroe nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Irwin A. and Frances B. Conroe, his sister, Connie M. Conroe, and his wife Josephine Perry Conroe.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday November 7, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church, 97 E Genesee Street, Skaneateles NY. Calling hour will be at 10:00 a.m. with the service following at 11:00 a.m. Luncheon will be served at the church after the service. Burial and military honors will be at the family’s convenience at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bard’s honor to honorflightsyracuse.org, or a local veterans organization.

"A truly rich life is measured by the love we leave behind."