Darinka Kirincic

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darinka “Dara” (Klesnik) Kirincic on January 4th, 2025, at the age of 86. Dara was born on March 10, 1938, in Rijeka Croatia, to Josip and Katica Klesnik.

Dara met and married her husband Duke and had two sons Robert and John. They had 62 wonderful years together living life to the fullest.

Dara initially worked as a seamstress in Astoria, New York, but her focus shifted to raising her children. Upon returning to the workforce, she briefly resumed her seamstress work before embarking on a fulfilling career at Franklin General Hospital. During her time there, she dedicated herself to caring for others, serving as a Nurse’s/Physical Therapy Aide. Dara’s compassionate nature shone through in her love for her work. She found joy in caring for patients and dedicated 15 years of her life to serving the hospital community.

In retirement, Dara embraced a life of adventure, frequently embarking on cruises with her husband and friends. She and Duke often spent time on the East end with her sister Iva and brother-in-law, John, and made several trips to Croatia to visit her other sisters, Vende and Josipa, and her brother, Franjo. Dara cherished spending time with her grandchildren, enjoyed many hours playing cards with family, and loved starting each morning with a cup of tea beside her loving husband.

Dara was a devoted wife and loving mother. She embodied the best of qualities: unconditional love, strength of spirit, and an unending generosity that could be seen in her care for her family.

Dara taught us to find joy in life’s small moments, to laugh at ourselves, and to always be kind. She prioritized comfort by always making sure everyone had cozy socks and a warm sweater, thoughtful gestures that showed her affection. She showed us that love is in the details – in a well-timed hug, a favorite meal, or a surprise gift simply because she was thinking of you.

Her passing comes as a great shock and is gravely felt by her entire family and friends. We can find solace knowing that she lived 86 wonderful years loving and being loved.