Obituary of Wallace G. Kirk

Wallace George Kirk Jr.

Wallace “Wally” Kirk Jr., 88, of Rome, NY died on March 17, 2023, at the Syracuse VA Medical Center with family by his side. Born in New Hartford, NY on June 2, 1934, he was the son of Wallace Sr. and Emily Christiansen Kirk. Wally, known as Sonny to family and friends, was educated in the Vernon Verona Sherrill schools, before enlisting in the United States Army where he proudly served his country from 1959-1961. Later, he had a successful career as an electrician at Pettibone Corporation in Rome for more than twenty years, before working at Bartell Manufacturing until his retirement.  On July 27, 1963, he married the love of his life Cleona “Toni” Mae Mullen. Together, they raised four children and enjoyed their years together until her passing in 2008.  Wally loved cooking special meals for his family and dancing in the kitchen with Toni when their favorite songs came on the radio.  Wally and Toni made many great memories camping and fishing on Raquette Lake and Black Lake with their family.

Wally’s most treasured moments were with his family, enjoying their favorite meals on holidays and cheering his kids and grandkids on with their sports and activities.  He loved being outside, going for long drives, and watching sports on TV.  During the fall months he enjoyed deer hunting in the Southern Tier with family and friends. Wally was especially proud of his children and grandchildren for all of their accomplishments. He was a member of the Rome Elks Lodge #96, the American Legion, and the Disabled American Veterans. Wallace was also an active member of St. Mary’s Church/ St. Peter’s Church.

Wally is survived by his children, Renè (Scott) Rabe of Rome, Peter (Heather) Kirk of Rome, Janet Kirk of Rome, and Paul (Elizabeth) Kirk of Lansing; sisters Elaine Skibitski, Anna Roome, and Patricia (Bob) Allen; brothers Edward and Michael Kirk; and his cherished grandchildren Kaitlyn and Kelsey Rabe, Sarah and Andrew Kirk, Tyler and Alivia Kirk.

Donations in Wally’s memory can be made to The Mission of the Christ Child Ministry of St. Peter’s Church, located at 400 Floyd Ave. Rome NY, 13440. The Mission of the Christ Child Ministry is a food pantry which serves the local community, where Wally volunteered in recent years.

Friends and family are invited to call from 4-7 PM on Monday, March 27, at Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home, located at 7751 Merrick Rd in Rome. A celebration of life will take place the following day at 11 AM at St. Peters Church, located at 200 N. James St. in Rome. Interment will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery in a private ceremony. Services are entrusted to Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home.