Cicero (CM) Kirkendoll, 93, of Owensboro, passed away on June 22, 2026 at the Heartford House in Owensboro. He was born January 13, 1933 to the late Gladys and Owen Kirkendoll in Daviess County, KY.
Cicero was a US Army Veteran and served in the Korean War. He was a lifelong truck driver, hauling to 50 states, Mexico, and Canada. Many say he was the best trucker around. CM could get you anywhere with his memory and an atlas. He drove for Parr Trucking, JB Hunt, West Express, and his buddy Charlie Redmon.
CM was preceded in death by his wife, Avarene Pate Kirkendoll in 2009; and his son, Robert O. Kirkendoll in 1969. He also lost all of his siblings throughout the years – Dora Milazewski, Gertie Mae Hughey, Sue Meyer, Martha Keaton, Gwendelene Kirkendoll and Robert Grant Kirkendoll.
He is survived by daughter, Gwen (Mike) Roby; grandson, Derek Raley (Ashley Berry); granddaughter, Brooke Raley; his best little buddy, Jade Stein; sisters-in-law, Emily Sue Pate, Judy Pate, and Barbara Tinsley; and brother-in-law Edd Pate; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
In memory of Cicero, take your dad to Mexican, buy him a margarita, listen as he talks about his travels, war stories, and years gone by. Let him tell you every building in town and what it used to be, every time you pass it. Take him to the VFW and let him talk to anyone who will listen. Take the long drive to nowhere and stop for ice cream.
There will be a private graveside service with military honors on Thursday, June 25th and burial at Elmwood Cemetery. James H. Davis Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.