Obituary of Bruce W. Newkirk

Elmira: Age 77, passed away on Monday, August 7, 2023 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center, with his loving family by his side. Bruce was born in Kingston, NY to the late Elizabeth (HasBrouck) Newkirk and Phillip Newkirk.  His family later relocated to Elmira.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 53 years Mary (Grannis) Newkirk, their only child, and son-in- law Theresa and Robert Reed; cherished grandsons, Joshua and Nicholas (Angela) Strong; along with four precious great-grand children, Carter, Adrianna, Layla and Oaklynn Strong. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his in-laws, Catherine and Thomas Grannis and sister Phyllis Hoskinson.

Bruce was constantly volunteering for his country and community.  He served in the US Navy from 1963 to 1969 during Vietnam. Bruce served his community as a member of the West Elmira Volunteer Fire Department ,beginning in 1974, as a firefighter and EMT, earning Fireman of the Year in 1980.  He served in the Army National Guard from 1985 to 2005 serving at Ground Zero after 911, and Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom; retiring as a sergeant.

After retiring from the Town of Elmira in 2009, Bruce volunteered serving as treasurer of the Vietnam War Museum and the Local Chapter of the Vietnam War Vets. He was passionate about helping other veterans and assisting them in advocating for their benefits.

Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water Street, Elmira, on Thursday, August 10, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A prayer service will be held at the funeral home on Friday, August 11, 2023 at 9:15 a.m., followed by a 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary’s Church, 224 Franklin Street, Elmira. Interment, with committal prayers and military honors, will then take place at Woodlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family would request that those who wish to express their sympathy please consider making a donation to the Vietnam Veteran’s of America, 1200 Davis Street, Elmira, NY 14901.