Kirk Anthony Gilfillen

He was born on August 26, 1946 in Peoria, IL, and he was the son of the late Mary (Kohut) and Kirk Gilfillen. After being raised in the University Heights section of the Bronx, NY, he was a 30 year resident of Howell, NJ, before moving to Lakewood over 10 years ago. Kirk was a graduate of Fordham Prep and Fordham University. Upon his graduation, Kirk was a former teacher for the 3rd grade students in the Bronx for the New York City Public School System. He was a retired investigator for the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, retiring after 25 years of service. Kirk was passionate about collecting model trains, railroad history, and traveling first class on Amtrak trains. He also loved to watch Jeopardy and Judge Judy. Kirk is remembered fondly for enjoying good food and cocktails at high end restaurants. He was the life of the party and always ready to have a good time.

Kirk is survived by his three children and their spouses, Kirk Anthony, Jr. and his wife Mary, Kimberly Schaeffer and her husband Sean, and Christine Gilfillen and her fiance Jason; a granddaughter, Christine Barton and her fiance Brian; and a dear caregiver and companion, Pauline Russo. In addition to his parents, Kirk was predeceased by his aunts, Betty and Anne; and his uncle, Tony.

Visitation will be Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.at the D'Elia Funeral Home, 1300, Vermont Avenue, Lakewood, NJ 08701. His funeral service will be Monday 10 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial will be at a later date in the Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, NY.

For further information or to post a tribute online, please visit www.deliafuneralhome.com