Robert Durkin

Robert R. Durkin, 70 of Whiting, NJ passed away at home on Saturday January 17th, 2026. Robert was born in Jersey City, NJ and spent time living in Carteret, NJ before moving to Whiting 10 years ago. Robert graduated from Dickenson High School in Jersey City in 1973.

Robert was predeceased by his parents John and Marie Durkin, his wife Kathleen Kijesky, his sister Maria Anna “Dee” Coston, his brother John R. Durkin and his nephew Gordon.

He is survived by his loving siblings Dianne Meade of Swansboro, NC, Gordon Durkin and wife MariaAnn Dee of Nutley, NJ and Jacqueline Durkin of Stella, NC and his nieces and nephews Angela, Tanya, Russell, Jeffrey, Gordon, Sean, Ian, Michelle and Nicole. Robert is also survived by his sister-in-law Patty Gumble (Bob), who he was close to for the last 35 years, his step-daughter Janie (Ray) and their son Michael who fondly called Robert "Grandpa".

Robert traveled to California with the Hudson County Trail Riders to meet his future and lifelong friend Bob Gwinnett, and two years later, they rode back to NJ on motorcycles. Inspired, he went to MMI in Daytona, FL, and worked in the motorcycle industry for 20 years at Ralph Cycles. He then owned his own shop Bob Durkin West Side Cycle of NYC. Later, he drove trucks for two companies until he retired. He was an amateur singer and songwriter and loved to jam and perform. He made many recordings with accomplished classical guitarist Doug Sobers of Jersey City, who could play every style. He loved horses and dogs, and was an avid target shooter.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking donations be made to St. Jude’s’s hospital at Online Donations - St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Cremation will be private.