Richard Irving Gilkey, 85, a lifelong resident of East Syracuse, passed away on Feb. 4, 2023. Richard was a 1956 graduate of East Syracuse High School. He served in the Air National Guard and worked 40 years at Niagara Mohawk.

Richard wed his high school sweetheart, Carol Featherly, in 1959; they were married for 61 years.

Richard had a love of sports.  He was an avid baseball player and lifelong Yankee fan while cheering on Syracuse University football and basketball.  He was a devoted member of the Collamer United Church for 64 years, continually volunteering for church functions.

Most of all, Richard was happiest being a husband, father and grandfather.  He had a quiet strength about him and showed a great love of family, friends and life.

Richard enjoyed his final years with his “fiancée,” Janet Krak, living life each and every day to the fullest.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Ruth Gilkey; his wife, Carol; sister, Betty Fritcher; and brothers, Edward and Charles Gilkey.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Karen (Vincent) Nastasi and grandsons, Joseph and Kyle of Hardwick, Massachusetts; son, Steven (Cynthia) Gilkey and granddaughters Andrea and Alyssa; his sister, Joyce (Marty) Felicita of Syracuse; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life for Richard Gilkey will be held at 11 a.m. on April 22, 2023, at the Collamer United Church, 6865 Fly Road, East Syracuse, with the burial to follow at Collamer Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Richard’s memory may be made to Collamer United Church or St. Aloysius Church, 64 Church Street, Gilbertville, MA 01031.

For guest book, please visit scheppfamily.com.