Karl Martin Wirt

Karl Martin Wirt, 87, of North Syracuse, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, in Syracuse, New York. He was born on March 24, 1938, in Charlotte, Michigan, to Alice Wirt. He was raised by Alice, who was a single mother for many years before marrying Delton Mitchell, who became Karl's stepfather and an important part of his life. Karl began his studies at the University of Michigan, where he pursued his passion for music, before leaving to serve in the United States Air Force, where he was a trombonist in the prestigious USAF Band in Washington, D.C.. Following his service, he began a long career as a music educator and band director, working in school districts across Michigan, New York, and Tennessee-including Clinton, Belding, and Charlotte, MI; Union Springs, NY; and Cocke County, TN. In retirement, he and his wife lived in Tennessee and Illinois, where they enjoyed many peaceful and fulfilling years, before eventually returning to New York. Karl had a lifelong love of music, the outdoors, nature, crossword puzzles, and Michigan football, and could often be found cheering on the Wolverines with his favorite snacks close by. He was a man of deep faith who loved the church and found purpose in serving his Savior in many ways throughout his life. His commitment to his beliefs was evident in both his actions and the quiet strength with which he lived. He was preceded in death by his mother, Alice, stepfather, Delton, and brother, Jerrold Wirt. He is survived by his wife, Judy Wirt; brother, James (Dorothy) Wirt; children, Gregory (Carleen) Wirt, Kimberly (Tony) Lupia, Kristen Wirt, Jennifer (Chris) Hulme; grandchildren, Martin (Rebecca) Marty" Wirt, Chelsea (Peter) Gaibrois, Anthony (Kyle) Lupia, Ben (Katie) Lupia, Daniel Savard, David Savard, Zachary Church, Andrew Savard and great-grandson, Henry. He will be remembered with love by his family and those who knew him. Calling hours will be on Sunday, August 10th from 3 to 5 pm at Fergerson Funeral Home, 215 South Main Street, North Syracuse. Burial, at a later date, will be in Riverside Cemetery, Bellevue, Michigan. Donations may be made, in lieu of flowers, to Silver Fox in Baldwinsville, (https://www.paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1529111) or to the Cicero United Methodist Church, (check memo line: Education/Sunday School), 8416 Brewerton Road, Cicero, New York 13039.

Tributes

Karl Martin Wirt

July 30, 2025