Obituary of Gerard F. Irving

GREENVILLE - Gerard Freddy Irving, 74, passed peacefully on Wednesday, May 16, 2012. Born in Oakland, California on July 25, 1937, his parents Gerard and Elinore passed away within 8 months of each other leaving Gerard an orphan at 8 years of age. For a brief period of time he lived with his Aunt Ruth Irving Walenta, her husband Edmund and his cousin Edmund Joseph Walenta in New Jersey. He then moved in with his Aunt Marion Irving in Greenville, a registered nurse and graduate of Columbia University, who devoted her life to his care. Gerard enlisted in the Army in 1960 and served as a mechanic both in the states and overseas. During his service he was awarded a Marksman Citation. A lifelong resident of Greenville, Gerard was active in his community. He was a member for many years of the Greenville Volunteer Fire Department. He was an active member of Christ Episcopal Church where he served as Acolyte, Lector and Lay Eucharistic Minister. He was a member of James S Austin Lodge, Free & Accepted Masons, where he received the Dedicated Service Award for his work on behalf of the Lodge within the community. He was a member of the Valley of Albany, Scottish Rite Masonry and Cyprus Temple Shriners. A proficient carpenter, Gerard worked for the Carpenters Union in both Greene and Albany Counties until his retirement. Gerard is survived by his cousin Richard Irving and many distant cousins. Calling hours are at Cunningham's Funeral Home in Greenville on Saturday June 23rd from 5 to 7 PM, with a Masonic Memorial Service at 6:30 PM. A Memorial Service will be held at Christ Church Episcopal on Sunday June 24 at 9 AM followed by interment at Greenville Cemetery. Donations in his memory can be made to Christ Church, Greenville. Light a candle at ajcunninghamfh.com.