Bernard E. Kirkman

Bernard E "Bernie" Kirkman, 84, of Byesville passed away Wednesday (November 15, 2017) at 8:05 p.m. at Greystone Health Care Center (Formerly Autumn Healthcare) following a brief illness.

He was born September 5, 1933 in Cambridge and was the son of the late Ross C. and Lyda (Gregg) Kirkman.

Bernie was a Staff Sgt. In the U.S. Air Force from 1953 to 1957. He was a crew member on the first transatlantic flight on the C-130 Hercules. He was a member of the Byesville VFW #3760, Cambridge VFW #2901, Elks Lodge, Eagles #386, and the Cambridge Country Club. More than anything, Bernie loved life, always wore a smile, never met a stranger and always had something funny to say.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife Roma (Mead) Kirkman whom he married September 5, 1953 and passed away in 1999, one son Gregg Kirkman; one brother Ross L. Kirkman; three brothers–in-law, Loren Marlatt, Don Kranz and Dick Mead.

Bernie is survived by one daughter Debra Ball of Byesville; six grandchildren, Brandon, Blake and Ashley Ball of Byesville, Crystal, Lora Lynn and Tim Kirkman of Cambridge; nine great grandchildren; four sisters, June Kranz of Cambridge, Wilma Kirkman of Byesville, Mabel Jane Marlatt of Byesville, and Linda (Daniel) Oldham of Jamestown; several nieces and nephews including a special nephew, Chuck Marlatt, who was by his side during his illness.; several cousins, and good friends, Don Boggs, Raymond Morris, Jack McCoy, Tom Parker and Carolyn Huntsman.

No calling hours will be observed. Graveside service with military honors will be held Monday (November 27, 2017) at 11 a.m. at Northwood Cemetery, Cambridge.

Memorial donations may be made to your favorite charity.

Monday, November 27, 2017 11:00 AM

Northwood Cemetery 1399 North 10th St Cambridge, OH 43725