Mr. Larry Donald Kirk, 62, of Rochester passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2020 at his residence.
On May 31, 1958, Larry was born in Gary to Vernon and Virginia Strohl Kirk. Growing up he shared his childhood with four sisters Toni, Nettie, Debbie, Michelle and a brother Ron.
With a strong work ethic, Larry headed the maintenance department of Federal Mogul for over 20 years prior to his retirement. He also worked for Fulton County Transpo driving and as a dispatcher for many years.
Larry was very devoted to the love of his life, Susie Cooper, for the past 12 years. They enjoyed a long distance romance and there were many trips to Mississippi. Sadly she passed away in July 2020.
An avid super hero fan, Batman was Larry's favorite. He collected many unique pieces that he displayed around his home. He loved Monsters and always wanted to go hunting for Bigfoot! Larry also treasured his feline companion, Tabitha the adorable Tabby cat. She was playful, entertaining and appreciated the attention he gave her. Larry answered to "baby boy," a title given by his mother. He patented the quotes, "It's good being a Kirk," and "the world needs more chocolate," a part of his life's philosophy.
Uncle Larry was like a super hero to his 25 nieces and nephews. He taught them many things, but especially shared his knowledge of fishing. Whether it was on the banks of the Tippecanoe or more lengthy sessions at Kentucky Lake, Uncle Larry was always there to help bait their hooks or clean the catches of the day. He loved Christmas and the holidays making memories with his family.
Left to cherish Larry's memory are five siblings Toni McCrea of Culver, Nettie Dawn Woods of Columbus, Debbie Minns and husband Dale of South Haven, Michelle Clingler and husband William of Culver, Ronald Kirk and wife Karen of Murray, KY; he dearly loved and lived for all of his 25 nieces and nephews, 66 great nieces and nephews, 24 great-great nieces and nephews, many aunts, uncles and cousins. He is also survived by special friends Brad Watwood, Jeff Ditmire, Chris Biltz, Mary Westwood, Terry and Joe Moore and his former wife of 25 years JeanAnn Shambarger.
Preceding Larry in death are his parents Vernon and Virginia Kirk, grandparents Gilbert and Nettie Kirk, Alvis and Juanita Strohl, in-laws Loren and Gladys Shambarger and a great niece Reagan Cattin.
A celebration of the life of Mr. Larry D. Kirk will be at 6:00 PM on Thursday, October 15, 2020 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester. Pastor Patrick Allen will officiate. Friends may visit with the family from 4-6 PM on Thursday in the funeral home. Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to his family at www.goodfamilyfh.com.
