William "Bill" Kierkla, Sr

Monson- William Kierkla, Sr, 55, passed away Saturday, October 10, 2026 at home surrounded by love of family. Bill was born in Springfield, MA to the late Chester and Elizabeth (Lizon) Kierkla. 

Bill grew up in Feeding Hills, MA. and graduated from Agawam High School. He immediately began his working career at American Saw. Bill then went on to obtain his CDL and for several years he was a truck driver for WB Hill in East Longmeadow driving the “Katie Ann”. He ended his career as a butcher and worked for many years at Arnold’s Meat in East Longmeadow and The Village Food Mart in Hampden.

His greatest joy came from his “Gentlemen’s Farm” here in Monson. He carried his family’s tradition of raising farm animals and beekeeping. Bill was also a lover of the outdoors and an avid hunter and fisherman. He made many friends with the Green Street Group. Bill loved watching his family grow and his four sons are his legacy.

Bill leaves his wife of 31 years, Melissa Blackburn-Kierkla and their children; William Kierkla Jr. and his wife Sarah of Monson, Gianni Kierkla and his partner Thomas Smith of Haddam, CT, Peter Kierkla and his wife Mia of Belchertown, Dominic Kierkla and his partner Alexis Soucier of Monson; a sister Barbara Harrington and her husband Randy of Feeding Hills; A brother Joseph Kierkla and his wife Christine of Agawam; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Lombard Funeral Home 3 Bridge Street, Monson, MA has been entrusted with the arrangements. Visiting hours will be held Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 4-7pm in the funeral home. A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, October 16, 2026 with procession forming at 9am at the funeral home or if you wish, gather directly at St Patrick’s Church for a 10am Mass. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Monson 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Opacum Land Trust PO Box 233 Sturbridge MA 01566