Harold W. Funke, 84, of South New Berlin went to be with the Lord on Good Friday, March 30, 2018. He was born in Brooklyn NY on August 19, 1933 to the late Walter and Charlotte Funke. After graduating high school, Harold joined the US Marine Corps and proudly served his country in various foreign and domestic assignments, including the Korean War. Upon his discharge, Harold relocated to the Norwich area and became a trooper with the New York State Police earning the rank of Sergeant. He was a member of the State Police SCUBA diving team and eventually retired from the State Police after 21 years of service. After retiring, he worked for Norwich high school as an attendance officer. Later on he worked as a chimney inspector and volunteered his time as a driver for the Disabled American Veterans organization, transporting patients to and from medical appointments. He also worked at the Norwich YMCA as a lifeguard and water aerobics instructor. Harold will be remembered as an athletic man, participating in many triathlons throughout the state, he was also a referee for local JV and varsity football games. He served his community as a member of South New Berlin Fire Department and was a 55 year member of South New Berlin First Baptist Church, serving as a deacon. He was the past commander of VFW Post 2782 in Norwich, and the past commander of American Legion Post 1289 in South New Berlin. He loved to spend time outdoors hunting and fishing and most of all, Harold loved time spent with his family. Harold is survived by his wife of 63 years, the love of his life,Betty Funke of South New Berlin. Harold and Betty have five children; Karen and Clayton Svenson, of Norwich, Rev. Kurt and Patty Funke, of South New Berlin, Kim Baker and Curt Karstetter, of Norwich, Kevin and Melinda Funke, of Edmeston, and Kyle Funke, of Laramie WY; as well as 15 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Along with his parents, Harold was predeceased by his sister and brother in law, Anita and Bill Werner, and his grandson, Deegan. A graveside service for Harold will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday May 19 at Fly Creek Valley Cemetery, 100 Cemetery Rd. Fly Creek NY with Pastor Bob Decker of the First Baptist church of South New Berlin officiating. The family wishes to acknowledge the wonderful care of the staff at the Chase Memorial Nursing Home where Harold has resided for the past year.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Harold’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://act.alz.org/donate or to the South New Berlin Fire Department at 3327 State Highway 8, South New Berlin, NY 13843. Arrangements have been entrusted to R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.