Robert Francis Kirchner, Sr.

ALBANY – Robert Francis Kirchner Sr. (87) of Loudonville, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2015 with his loving family by his side. His passing came after a brief illness which followed several years of spirited battle with declining health. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 55 years, Joan Hinckley Kirchner.

Robert was born May 9, 1927, the son of the late Arnold and Mildred (Carroll) Kirchner and brother of the late Nancy (Joseph) Crawley of Anaheim, CA. He was born and grew up in Lansingburgh, and graduated from Lansingburgh High School prior to attending Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Siena College. Robert was a WWII era veteran of the United States Army and worked for Allegheny Ludlum prior to joining the New York State Thruway Authority. It was there that he served as Senior Accountant for many years before retiring in 1992. Robert was a steady, wise and loving father who enjoyed coaching Little League Baseball and serving as a Boy Scout leader. In his younger years he was an accomplished local bowler. Robert was an avid and gentlemanly golfer who thoroughly enjoyed every round regardless the score, weather, or season. He was a member of Colonie Elks Lodge 2192 where he enjoyed meeting his friends. He participated with great enthusiasm in the Thruway and Colonie Seniors Golf Leagues for many years.

Robert is survived by his three children, Karen (the late Thomas) Squire of Claverack, Robert Francis (Natalie) Kirchner Jr. of Niskayuna, Steven M. (Rebecca) Kirchner of Poestenkill and his two grandchildren, Coleton G. Kirchner and Carly R. Kirchner of Niskayuna. He was predeceased by his daughter Susan Owen of Florida. Robert benefited greatly from the loving and attentive care he received from Dr. Mary Rappazzo, Stephanie Lencewicz, Donna Kershaw, and the staff of St. Peter's Hospital and the Community Hospice Inn at St. Peter's.

Funeral services will be held at New Comer Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, Tuesday morning at 9:30am and from there to Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home Monday from 4:00-7:00 pm. In remembrance, donations may be made to Community Hospice of Albany County, 445 New Karner Road, Albany NY.