Gary L. Kirkpatrick Sr., 61, died Tuesday (Sept. 21, 2004) at Newton Medical Center. He was born Oct. 25, 1942, to John and Ruby (Weigand)  Kirkpatrick in Newton. They preceded him in death.

He married Betty Dilbeck March 26, 1967, in Newton. She survives.He worked for the railroad as a diesel electrician for many years. He was past commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 971 and a member of the American Legion, both of Newton. His hobbies included working on demolition derby cars, working with his children, supporting Newton High School wrestling tournaments and gardening.

Other survivors include: two sons, Gary Kirkpatrick, Jr. and wife Elizabeth of Newton and Richard Kirkpatrick and wife Theresa of Milton, Fla.; a daughter, Leasa Kirkpatrick of Wichita; a sister, Evelyn Sidener of Burns; a brother, Ronald Kirkpatrick of Florence; and three grandchildren, Kathleen Kirkpatrick, Ruthanne Kirkpatrick and Tony Kirkpatrick , all of Milton.He also was preceded in death by a brother, John J. Kirkpatrick

.Visitation was Friday at Petersen Funeral Home.Funeral service will be 10 a.m. today at Petersen Funeral Home with Pastor Steve Baird officiating.Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery. The Fort Riley Honor Guard will present full military rites at the gravesite.Memorials have been established with the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Newton and the NHS Wrestling Athletics Fund, both in care of the funeral home.