Richard D. Kirkpatrick

Kirkpatrick, Richard Sr.
Richard "Kirk" Kirkpatrick, Sr., 86, died peacefully at St. Peter's Hospital Saturday January 1, 2011 surrounded by his loving family.
Kirk joined the Coast Guard in WW II serving from March 1942 to March 1946. He was a Boatswain's Mate Second Class and served on the Destroyer Escort USS Pride DE 323 for 2 years. Kirk received 3 Bronze Stars, the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Medal and his fleet was credited with sinking an enemy submarine. He was a lifelong member of the VFW William F. Wigand Post 8449 and also the American Legion Post 1610 in North Albany. Upon retirement, Kirk volunteered for many years at the Stratton VA Medical Center as an escort. He also hosted yearly veterans celebrations at his home in Colonie for many years. He wanted to do his part to be sure that Veterans felt honored and appreciated. Kirk started working for Millbrook Bakery in 1946 and retired from Freihofers Bakery in 1986. He also worked for St. Peter's Hospital SPARC program on 2nd Ave as a respite worker from 1989 until 1995.
Kirk is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Olga, five loving children Linda (Ricky) Kenific, Patti (Fred) Baye, Richard (Sharon) Kirkpatrick, Jr., David Kirkpatrick and Marietta (Jim) Kirkpatrick, grandchildren Chelsea and Kevin Brandow, Jeremy Baye, Lisa Koonz, Paul Kenific, Dawn Milner and his great-granddaughter Alexcia Koonz who brought much joy to his later years. He was predeceased by his son John Kirkpatrick in 2008.
Kirk had a heart of gold and helped those in need. His love of family was extraordinary and he especially cherished family gatherings. He recognized others around him without family and was quick to adopt them to share holidays and family outings with the Kirkpatrick family. Kirk had an easy going way and taught his children the beauty of forgiveness, acceptance and loving all people equally. He found the good in all people.
His family extends sincere appreciation to the VA Hospital and Albany County Nursing Home for excellent care.
The funeral service will be Wednesday 12:30 noon at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie. Calling hours will precede the service from 10:30 am to 12:30 noon at the funeral home. Interment will be in Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Stratton VA Medical Center Hospital. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.NewcomerAlbany.com