Kay Taylor Zirkle

Kay Taylor Zirkle (86), long-time resident of Onarga, IL, died on Friday, September 22, 2023 at home surrounded by her family after a battle with cancer. She was born in Watseka, IL on December 5, 1936 to the late Bill and Gladys Taylor.

Kay is survived by her loving husband, Robert Zirkle, of 67 years, four children, Robert Jr. (Karen) Zirkle, Mike (Cathy) Zirkle, Tom (Kim) Zirkle, Mark (Lisa) Zirkle along with many adored grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by two children, Mary and Tim Zirkle. 

Kay grew up in Onarga, IL and graduated from Onarga High School in 1954. She attended the Brokaw School of Nursing for 2 years. While raising five boys at home, she attended the University of Illinois where she graduated with her degree in teaching. Kay went on to teach in Onarga and Gilman schools for 22 years.

Kay and Bob were avid travelers and visited all 50 states in their adventures together. They spent 25 winters in Florida and Texas where she enjoyed singing in the RV Park church choir and ringing the bells.

Kay was a member of the Catholic church and spent many years singing in their church choir as well. Her other hobbies included reading, gardening, playing the piano, and spending time with loved ones.

Kay was a talented artist and painted many of the building murals in Onarga, IL including the movie theater, the hardware store, “Princess Onarga”, and even a nod to her favorite children’s book, “Where the Wild Things Are”, on her garage. 

Kay will be missed dearly by family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 28, 2023 from 1-3PM with a funeral service following at 3:00PM at Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga, IL. Family and friends are invited to attend a dinner at the Catholic Church Parish Hall in Gilman, IL following the funeral service. 

Memorials may be made to Iroquois Memorial Hospice.

Please share a memory of Kay at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.