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Gerald Kirkland 1938-2019

CORTLAND — Gerald “Jerry” Kirkland, 80, passed away Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, at Hospice House.

Jerry was born on Dec. 4, 1938, in Warren, to Howard and Helen Hart Kirkland.

After graduating from high school, Jerry entered the workforce. He spent time working for Rockwell and Republic Steel before settling in and eventually retiring from WCI, where he worked in tractor maintenance. On Sept. 17, 1994, he was united in marriage to the former Vicki Bortmas, who survives.

A man of faith, Jerry was an active member of the Cortland United Methodist Church. He was a proud union member of United Steelworkers Local 1375. Jerry enjoyed old cars, tinkering on cars and attending car shows. He was also a NASCAR fan and loved seeing Dale Jr. win races. He also loved the outdoors and camping with his family.

Besides his wife of 25 years, Jerry is survived by his children, Robert (Lisa) Kirkland, Lori Blazer, Stacy (Don) Piersant, Jesse (Lowry) Book and Jason (Danielle) Book; 12 grandchildren; one great-grandson; his sister, Shirley (Ron) Maise; his brothers, Ed (Carolyn) Kirkland and Dennis (Deborah) Kirkland; as well as many other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ernest Kirkland.

Visitation for Jerry will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8, 2019, at Cortland United Methodist Church, 155 N. High St., Cortland, where a funeral service will immediately follow at 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Cortland United Methodist Church. Please visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to leave condolences for the family. Lane Funeral Homes, Shafer-Winans Chapel, Cortland, assisted the family.

(special notice)