Obituary of Kevin Kaier

Kevin Andrew Kaier, 52, passed away peacefully April 1, 2024 at Rome Hospital, after a battle with Alzheimer’s. A lifelong resident of Rome, Kevin was born February 2, 1972 to Robert and Rosemary Kaier.  The youngest of 9 children, he became the self-proclaimed Governor of the family with a penchant for meeting new people, shaking hands, and giving speeches.

Kevin enjoyed an active social life with family and his friends and co-workers at Job Connections. He won several Special Olympic medals, participated in bowling and golf leagues, and liked going to the movies, watching wrestling, and traveling.  A graduate of Rome Free Academy, he had an impressive talent for remembering numerous special dates and 1980s movie and music trivia.  He’ll be remembered by many for the recipes that he copied and shared with them and as the Weatherman, notably tracking the latest forecasts.   

After the passing of Kevin’s parents, his sister, Carol, became his care champion and sometimes “favorite sister”.  Kevin and the entire family are grateful for her and her family’s sacrifice and enduring devotion.

Kevin leaves to cherish his memory his siblings: Robert (Jeri) Kaier, Timothy (Dale) Kaier, Rita (Lawrence) Riolo, Suzanne (Kenneth) Tuttle, Mary Ellen Kaier (Anthony Tangredi), JoanE (Mark) Karnisky, Bernard (Suzanne) Kaier, Carol (James) Prescott, and his Aunt Lorna Kaier.  He was the proud uncle to 24 nieces and nephews and 25 great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to Kevin’s aides who helped him live independently for many years and the remarkably dedicated staff at DDSO and Arc for helping Kevin live his life to the fullest.

Kevin’s body is being gifted to Upstate Medical School. A funeral mass will be held at St. Peter’s Church on Friday, April 12, 2024 at 11am.  In celebration of his life, please enjoy some ice cream and listen to The Benny Hill theme song (or Vixen).

Memorial donations to The Friends of The Arc Foundation, Oneida-Lewis Chapter, or Special Olympics are appreciated.

Arrangements by Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home 7751 Merrick Road, Rome.