Joseph Philip Virkler

Joseph Philip Virkler December 22, 2018 Joseph Philip Virkler, 92, passed away quietly on December 22, 2018, at the Syracuse Home in Baldwinsville, New York. "Uncle Joe" was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse H. Virkler and Jennie J. Linstruth Virkler; and by brothers LaVern, Paul, Warren and Jesse Lewis, and his sisters Helena Sherwood and Phyllis Rainey. Born in Syracuse, NY, on July 13, 1926, he had lived in Baldwinsville almost his entire life, graduating from Baldwinsville Academy in 1944. He also attended the University College at Syracuse University. He is survived by his many nieces and nephews in whose lives he played an important role imbuing in them an appreciation, if not his love, for Mozart, the Adirondacks and the New York Yankees. For many years he helped work the family farm in Baldwinsville until he was employed by the Syracuse State School (later the Syracuse Developmental Center) from which he retired as an occupational therapist. For over 60 years he was a member of the First Baptist Church where he served his Lord in various capacities including as a deacon, a trustee, choir and music director, and Sunday school teacher. During the entire time he was a tenor in the choir. He was currently a member of the Clay Community Church. The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 19, 2019, calling hours 10:00-12:00 with a memorial service to follow, at Clay Community Church at 8650 Morgan Road, Clay, NY. It was Joseph's request was that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Clay Community Church. Please sign the guestbook at syracuse.com/obits

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