Harry J. Zirbel, Sr.

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 and finished 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 and 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.