Robert John Newkirk

Robert J. Newkirk, 78, of Ellijay, GA, formerly of Torrington, CT, passed away March 4, 2011 after a brief illness at his home. He was born in Torrington, CT on November 30, 1932, son of the late Earl Newkirk and policewoman Margaret Mahan Newkirk. In 1986, a retired truck driver, he moved to the Atlanta area and was owner of a commercial cleaning company. He is preceded in death by his loving wife Annie Mavis Penny Newkirk and daughters Sharon and Marlene Newkirk.
He was a well decorated Sgt. in the United States Marine Corp and served proudly during the Korean War, G Company, 3rd BN, 5th Marine Regt., 1st Marine Div. He was a member of the American Legion Post #258 and VFW of Jonesboro, GA.
He leaves three daughters and their husbands: Dorette and James Avallone, Christine and Jeff Moses, Roberta and John Lester, all of Ellijay, GA. nine grandchildren: Jason Pollutro of Winthrop, MA, Jeremy Pollutro of Torrington, CT, Nicholas Sebben of Snellville, GA, Tanya and Matthew Moses of Ellijay, GA and Ashley Moses of NC, Joshua Barker of Athens, GA, Jordan Barker of Ellijay, GA and Emily Lester of Ellijay, GA and three great grandchildren. One brother, Donald Newkirk, Sr. of Torrington, CT. Three nephews: Donald Newkirk, Jr. of Cape Cod, MA, John Newkirk of Torrington, CT and Wayne Newkirk of Barkhamsted, CT and their families.
A memorial service with full military honors will be celebrated at a later date at the families request at Old St. Francis Cemetery in Torrington, CT. Phalen Funeral Home will be handling the arrangements.