Contributions to the tribute of Gerald L. (Jerry) Kilmartin Jr.

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The family of Gerald L. (Jerry) Kilmartin Jr. uploaded a photo

Monday, January 29, 2018

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tyler kim posted a condolence

Monday, September 22, 2014

i am deeply saddened to hear of jerry's passing. he left a message on my answering machine in late april or early may, i'm presuming to say good bye. i unfortunately was having a lengthy say @ lenox hill hospital recovering from bilateral knee replacement surgery and was unable to reply. i'm currently still rehabing, and found his message on my answering machine recently. although we didn't see each other over the past several years, we traded xmas cards every year promising to meet up and enjoy a meal together. when i think of jerry, i think of a hilarious trip we ended up taking together to a mutual friend's wedding in san francisco. i stayed outside of sf and he stayed in the mission district. i had to rent a car, and ended up being his escort/driver while he was there. our trip was full of many coincidences, a meeting up w/ an old friend of his, him urging me to score acid for him, him singing unexpectedly @ the wedding(didn't tell anyone because it would make him nervous), fine dining where he ordered for everyone @ the table, and just sightseeing in sf together. i have an incredible amount of stories of the 3 days or so he was there, and i was glad he was there to witness most of those events. i had a really good time w/ him. i always felt very close to him, even though i didn't see him often and really would've liked to. especially since we lived in the same city. i will always be grateful to him for taking me to the metropolitan opera, and showing me how to buy standing room only seats, but end up sitting in the company box. as i said i am deeply saddened to learn of his passing, and the only thing i can offer is to say he was a really great soul. i'll miss his xmas card.

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tyler kim posted a condolence

Monday, September 22, 2014

i am deeply saddened to hear of jerry's passing. he left a message on my answering machine in late april or early may, i'm presuming to say good bye. i unfortunately was having a lengthy say @ lenox hill hospital recovering from bilateral knee replacement surgery and was unable to reply. i'm currently still rehabing, and found his message on my answering machine recently. although we didn't see each other over the past several years, we traded xmas cards every year promising to meet up and enjoy a meal together. when i think of jerry, i think of a hilarious trip we ended up taking together to a mutual friend's wedding in san francisco. i stayed outside of sf and he stayed in the mission district. i had to rent a car, and ended up being his escort/driver while he was there. our trip was full of many coincidences, a meeting up w/ an old friend of his, him urging me to score acid for him, him singing unexpectedly @ the wedding(didn't tell anyone because it would make him nervous), fine dining where he ordered for everyone @ the table, and just sightseeing in sf together. i have an incredible amount of stories of the 3 days or so he was there, and i was glad he was there to witness most of those events. i had a really good time w/ him. i always felt very close to him, even though i didn't see him often and really would've liked to. especially since we lived in the same city. i will always be grateful to him for taking me to the metropolitan opera, and showing me how to buy standing room only seats, but end up sitting in the company box. as i said i am deeply saddened to learn of his passing, and the only thing i can offer is to say he was a really great soul. i'll miss his xmas card.

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Jeanne Bosse posted a condolence

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Jerry must be laughing at the irony of Wagner's music coming over the radio just as I was starting to write this. Although we enjoyed many of the same operas, orchestral music, ballets and plays, try as he might, he could not convert me to Wagner. Much to Jerry's amusement, I succumbed to Wagner four years ago, and I wish we had been able to go to a live performance together. But, I am grateful for the many good times we shared together over the years. in addition to a passion for the arts, Jerry had a love of festivity. I have so many memories of special occasions with Jerry and friends. He particularly enjoyed celebrating his birthday and being fussed over, such as the time I put a crown on his head and velvet cape on his shoulders at his birthday dinner, A group of us will be gathering this year on Jerry's birthday to share memories and raise a glass to him. My deepest sympathies to his family and his many friends. Sing for us in Heaven, Jerry.

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Jeanne Bosse posted a condolence

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Jeanne Bosse

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Carl Whidden posted a condolence

Sunday, June 8, 2014

Dear Jerry: Thank you for being part of my life. You were kind and dear and your friends will never forget you. Happy memories fill my heart when I think of the fun we had in plays at SUNY Oswego and at Springside Inn. God Bless You. Carl

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Mary Sulllivan posted a condolence

Saturday, June 7, 2014

Jerry had such a kind gentle spirit, razor sharp wit and a love of all things fun. The first night I met him we literally danced all night into the wee hours of the morning. I was so fortunate that Jerry became a part of the Fitzie family and by default related to all of our extended family. We loved him and will miss him. I'm sure he has already found a new dance partner in the greatest fun place there is and he can dance again unencumbered by the physical challenges he endured on earth. Dance on!

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Mark Cole posted a condolence

Friday, June 6, 2014

Jerry Kilmartin, your hilarious way with a story, your enthusiasm for a book that should be read, a ballet, opera or play that must be seen, your appreciation of beauty and your wit and empathy in conversation have certainly made my life richer. These words from Thornton Wilder's "The Bridge of San Luis Rey" sum up my feelings now and I offer them to your family in sincere sympathy: â€œThere is a land of the living and a land of the dead and the bridge is love, the only survival, the only meaning.â€

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Graham Gilbert posted a condolence

Thursday, June 5, 2014

I wish to express my sincere condolences to family and friends. Jerry enriched our lives with his humor, his beautiful flower arrangements, his knack and joy in helping set up my wife, Louise Howard's Christmas tree decorating parties, his whimsical Christmas gifts on Christmas mornings, that he spent with our good friend, Garry Carbone and us, his many decorations, his hand-made paper hats, all created for a varying theme each New Year's Eve we shared, his surprise gush of rose petals from the balcony, at Louise and my 1995 log cabin wedding in The Adirondacks, the surprise serenade inside the cabin and later, when we retired that night, another surprise serenade outside our "honeymoon" tent, that he had earlier adorned with bows and ribbons, his love of fairy tales and children's stories, his love of theater arts, especially ballet, his clever ways of expressing criticism, and, perhaps most importantly now to us the living, an amazing example of fortitude, as from March 2003, when Jerry was suddenly hospitalized with double pneumonia and kidney failure, until May 27, 2014, he displayed a most impressive will to live, which he once told me he must have inherited from his father, and fought, with all he could muster, the various physical obstacles that piled up against him those long 11 years. Rest In Peace, dear friend, Jerry Kilmartin, you touched all of us who knew you in distinct ways that will surely bring you fondly and vividly back into our minds, from time to time, as we continue to play out our own individual fates. Thank you.

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Jeanie FitzGibbons posted a condolence

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Jerry was one of the most creative people I have ever met. He had a beautiful tenor voice, a sharp designer's eye and a witty, intelligent sense of humor. He could illustrate, act, teach, cook, craft, etc. and all with great panache. He shared all these talents along with his love, enthusiasm for life and his great spirit with me and my family. Thank you for all your beautiful gifts of love, Jerry. I love you. You will live in my heart forever.

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Jerome & Jennifer FitzGibbons posted a condolence

Thursday, June 5, 2014

We will miss you, Jerry. You enthusiastically played the "Original Jeromeo" on stage for our rehearsal dinner 20 years ago, and were a loving "brother" to all the Fitzies. You were always kind, always smiling, always thoughtful, and always willing to help. Impeccably dressed on fancy occasions, and a magnet to our daughters, who adored you for your gentle attention and genuine interest in them. We admire you for your perseverance and optimism, enduring your struggles with grace. You are among the angels now.

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Ellen FitzGibbons McCloskey posted a condolence

Thursday, June 5, 2014

My first memory of Jerry was with Rosemary Nesbitt's Children's Theatre at SUNY Oswego in the 1970's. He was a student and we were the children that worked with his class. He was so good to us and so much fun. He connected with my family through my sister Jeanie and quickly became an integral part of the Fitzie home. We shared crafts, movies, cooking, laughing, games, family projects and love for 40 years. I love you Jerry and hope that you rest in peace.

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Christine Taylor posted a condolence

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Bill, Ben, Pat and family members, I am very sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Warm Regards, Christine Fleming Taylor

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Tara FitzGibbons posted a condolence

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Jerry was such a thoughtful and loving person. He never forgot a birthday or a holiday - always sending a beautifully, handwritten note/card to say hello and wish you the best. I enjoyed working side by side with him in the kitchen cleaning up after many family holiday parties. He was always so caring and thoughtful of the "little ones" sharing stories and making craft projects. Love and miss you, Jerry. xoxo

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John FitzGibbons posted a condolence

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Jerry was an important part of our family life. He was kind, caring and concerned for all in our family. He was engaged and part of all the significant moments in my life. I will always have the memories of Jerry and his great spirit. As someone like a son, I know my Mother loved him and he loved her. I will miss Jerry and may he Rest in Peace

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Ellen Conway Kelly posted a condolence

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Jerry was my cousin - not because we shared genetic matter but because we shared many wonderful holidays and memories together. For over 40 years he was a part of Christmas, weddings and other family functions. It always made me happy knowing that Jerry was a part of us. He was kind, always thoughtful and interested in everything we did. No matter how small an accomplishment, Jerry was proud. I hope he knew how much we all loved him. I will miss you always, Jerry. Thank you for being a part of my life.

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Mary Tara posted a condolence

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Jerry was an incredible and wonderful person! My life is filled with countless happy, fun and tender moments because of him. He was not my brother by birth but become one in spirit. Growing up with Jerry in our house provided me with an opportunity to learn how to needlepoint, make incredible and delicious Christmas cookies, develop a love of ballet and learn how to search for Ninaâ€™s in the Art & Leisure section in The Times. These are just a few memories. Jerry was thoughtful, giving and kind. Always willing to help with a project, big or small. He, along with my Aunt, created numerous award-winning Celtic banners for my wedding. These masterpieces were a true reflection of Jerryâ€™s artistic talent. On our wedding day, Kevin and I were overwhelmed by Jerryâ€™s generous gift. I have so many memories of Jerry but a memory I cherish is of him singing Lo How a Rose E'er Blooming at 117 on Christmas Eve. It was our Motherâ€™s favorite carol. As he began to sing, everyone in the house would stop to sit and listen to his incredible tenor voice. Thank you Jerry for sharing your talents and love so freely. Padraig, Siobhan, Kevin and I, love you and will miss you!

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Mary Tara posted a condolence

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Mary Tara

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Joanie Dain posted a condolence

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

I've known Jerry for over 40 years. Jerry was a big part of my life in so many ways. We spent many fun times baking, playing games, and singing. Jerry had a great sense of humor and always looked on the bright side of things. I remember when he helped me write and illustrate a short story for children. I was always amazed at what he could do. He was talented in so many areas. We have many treasured gifts from Jerry that he crafted or sewed. Spending time with Jerry was always an adventure. He could make a simple activity so much fun! Thank you Jerry for entering my life. I will miss you. And, I love you. xo Joanie

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Kevin Hunt posted a condolence

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Jerry spent many joyous Christmas holidays with Kathleen and I in Syracuse. He was always so kind and generous. He would bring the most thoughtful gifts for the kids. Jack and Joan Fitz enjoyed his visits with us immensely. He and I handled a lot of the cooking. One year he sent to me afterward as a thank you The French Chef Cookbook by Julia Child. I treasure it, Miss you Jerry.

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Julie Kelly Dean posted a condolence

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Jerry was so good to my brother, sister and me when we were growing up. We have some wonderfully warm and funny family stories of which Jerry was a part. He was a sweet soul, my great dance partner at weddings, and terrific fun. I will miss him.

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Kathleen Hunt posted a condolence

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Jerry was always a big part of my life. He read me stories as a child, made christmas cookies with me, taught me how to needlepoint and even brought me to a concert. He loved the Arts, especially the ballet and was wonderful with children. How lucky I am to have shared so many wonderful times with him. I am truly going to miss him. Love you Jerry. XOXO Katho

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Elizabeth Riley Anderson posted a condolence

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Pat and Benny, I am so sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. Hugs to all of you. xoxo Liz

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James F. Brennan posted a condolence

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

I knew Jerry from his time in Oswego, and his association with my family. I have never known a kinder, sweeter man. The world was a better place with him in it. One wonderful memory comes from my sister\'s wedding in 1981. Jerry sang a duet with my brother. The song was: A gift of love. I still remember all the words these many years later. Such was the beauty of his voice. Jim Brennan

Gerald L. (Jerry) Kilmartin Jr.

1952 - 2014

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