Kirk R. Gugino
Kirk Robert Gugino, formerly of Fredonia, New York, passed away on Jan. 22, 2026, at the age of 62. He was born on Oct. 15, 1963, in Fort Lewis, Washington, to James and Nancy Gugino. Kirk graduated from Fredonia High School and later received a degree from Alfred State University. He was preceded in death by his mother, Nancy Gugino, and his wife, Amy Gugino.
After a five-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Kirk went home to be with his Lord and Savior.
He is survived by his two daughters, Megan Stickleman and Alison Mitchener; his two grandchildren, Chloe and Wesley Stickleman; his father, James Gugino; his siblings, Kimberly Kleumper, Susan Olivera, and Mark Gugino; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, his church family, and friends who remember, cherish, and deeply miss him.
Kirk and his wife, Amy, owned Loyal Oaks Greenhouses, where they grew poinsettias, spring perennials, and ornamental shrubs. Kirk was a hard worker, but he always took time to mentor his younger employees, becoming a surrogate father to many of them. It was often said that in his prime, Kirk could tear down a tractor, shake all the pieces in a box, and put it all back together again. Though the business kept him busy, he always made time for his church, Family Church Fredonia, formerly Bible Christian Fellowship, where he faithfully served as an usher for more than two decades. Kirk never deserted his post, watching, protecting, and caring for his church family at every service.
Kirk loved taking long walks, spending time with his cats, and teasing children wherever he found them, and they loved him for it. The little ones who flocked to him were poked, prodded, and bounced on his knee, eliciting smiles and laughter from both them and Kirk. His faith, sharp sense of humor, and incredible work ethic will live on in the memories of all who knew him.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the caregivers at Tanglewood’s Memory Garden in Jamestown, New York, and Dunkirk Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, where Kirk spent the last ten months of his life. They also wish to thank the many friends and members of his church family who visited him and brought him joy during his final days.
A celebration of life for Kirk and his late wife, Amy, will be held at 11 a.m. on April 25, 2026, at Family Church Fredonia, located at 19 Church St. in Fredonia, New York. Friends and family are welcome to attend, and lunch will be provided afterward. Pastor Scott Wise of Fredonia, New York, and Pastor Jeff Mitchener of Mayville, New York, will officiate the service.
Online condolences may be made at, larsontimkofuneralhome.com. Arrangements by David J. Dengler, LARSON-TIMKO Funeral Home.