Harry J. Zirbel, Sr.

Scipio, NY April 13, 1938 – March 16, 2026 Age 87

Harry John Zirbel, Sr., 87, of Scipio, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, with his family by his side.

Harry was born on April 13, 1938, in Genoa, son of the late Morgan and Lucille (Dingy) Zirbel. He was a lifelong area resident and attended the Genoa School, finishing his education attending night school in Moravia, NY. He worked at Smith Corona and the Cornell Dairy Bar before owning and operating the 34 Club with his wife, Karleen.

He was a member of the Old Timers Gang and he never missed a day at the Pit Stop drinking coffee, reading the paper, and catching up on the local gossip. He enjoyed planning trips for his loyal patrons when he was operating the 34 Club. Harry enjoyed spending time playing cards and dominos. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren playing basketball, baseball, and other activities.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Karleen (McNabb) Zirbel; a daughter, Sandy (Duane) Allen; a son, Harry (Terry) Zirbel; his grandchildren: Christopher (Kate) Allen, Joshua (Carly) Allen, Felicia Allen, Kirsten Strong, and Morgan Zirbel; six great-grandchildren; his sister, Luella Knapp; his brother, Kenneth (Donna) Dingy; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Lilly.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by an infant daughter, Donna Marie Zirbel; an infant grandson, Brandon Stuart Allen; brother, Claude Zirbel; sisters, Pearl Zirbel and May Hilliard; and his favorite four-legged friend, Spike.

We are forever grateful for our caregivers, Mindy Pollard, Lindsey Walters, and Jess Vorhis, who became like family, offering unwavering kindness, patience, and comfort during Harry's final years.

Friends may call from 1:00 - 2:00 PM on Saturday, March 21, at the Scipio Community Church, Rt. 34, Scipio Center, with a service to follow at 2:00 PM with the Rev. Adam Sabo officiating. Interment will be at a later time in Evergreen Cemetery, Scipioville.

Memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, are graciously directed to Southern Cayuga Instant Aid (SCIA) Ambulance, P.O. Box 7, Poplar Ridge, NY 13139, or to the Scipio Volunteer Fire Department, 3550 Route 34, Scipio Center, NY 13147. Arrangements are with the Shurtleff Funeral Home, Genoa, and online condolences may be shared with his family at www.shurtleffservices.com.