Obituary of Patrick R. Stirpe

Patrick R. Stirpe Mr. Patrick "Pat" R. Stirpe, age 82, of Rome, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2016, at Rome Memorial Hospital, with his daughters at his side. Pat was born in Rome, New York on July 17, 1934 to the late Patsy and Mary DiCicco Stirpe. He graduated from Rome Free Academy, and then received his bachelor's degree from St. Bonaventure University, a master degree from Colgate University and an assistantship at St. Bonaventure University to complete a master degree in Political Science. He was formerly married to Sylvia D. Stirpe. Pat worked as a teacher and guidance counselor in the Rome City School District for 32 years, retiring in 1990. He belonged to the Rome Teachers' Association, the New York State Teachers' Association, the National Board of Certified Counselors, and the Mohawk Valley Counseling Association and also received a certificate as a guidance coordinator. He was certified by the National Board of Counselors after accepting a NDEA grant to Institute in Political Science at Union College. Pat proudly served as a commissioned officer in the United States Army Reserves. He was a life member of the Rome Elks Lodge #96, McConnellsville Golf Club and a former member of the American Counseling Association, Boy Scouts of America where he served as a Scoutmaster and a counselor at Camp Kingsley, the Rome Family Y, and Ava Dorfman Senior Center. He also was a member of St. Mary's/St. Peter's Parish. His family was the center of his life. He was a loving father and grandfather and his most pleasurable times were spent with his cherished children and grandchildren. Pat is survived by two daughters and sons in law, Robin Althoff, Culpeper, VA and Neil Althoff of Amissville, VA, and Michelle and Craig Hardy of Modesto, CA; five grandchildren, Megan and Matt Althoff, and Ryan, Ethan, and Jacob Hardy; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by sisters, Josephine DiMarco, Gilda Biebly; a brother, John Stirpe; and beloved friend, Suzanne Turbidy. Funeral Services will be held Saturday at 9:45 AM from the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, and a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM, at St. Peter's Church with the Rev. Philip A. Hearn officiating. Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Friday 4 to 7 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's Church Memorial Fund and/or to The Bonaventure Fund at St. Bonaventure University, P.O. Box 2519 St. Bonaventure, NY 14778. Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.