The community is mourning the loss of John Paul Kirk, Sr., who passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on December 9, 2025. Surrounded by his loving family, including his wife of 73 years, Alice Kirk, and their children, Kirk’s death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to family, community service, and personal achievement.
Born on March 14, 1931, in Ashland, Alabama, Kirk was the youngest of ten children. He maintained close ties with his family, attending reunions and nurturing lifelong friendships. After graduating from Clay County High School in 1949, Kirk unexpectedly enlisted in the Army Air Corps, which is now known as the Air Force. He served at Amarillo Air Force Base, where he taught aircraft electronics.
It was during his time in Amarillo that Kirk met Alice. The couple married on December 27, 1952, and went on to have three children: John, Jr., Kathy, and Rebecca. The family expanded to include ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, with another great-grandchild expected in January 2026.
Following his military service, the Kirks moved to Atlanta, where John pursued further education, earning an equivalent of an Associate’s degree at Southern Tech. He later returned to school and achieved a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics from Embry Riddle University at the age of 76. Kirk’s passion for flying began in Texas, where he took lessons and eventually obtained a small plane pilot’s license, holding it for 50 years.
Kirk’s professional journey included work at an oil company and a remarkable stint in Bogotá, Colombia, where he and Alice made lasting memories and friendships. Upon their return to the United States, they settled in Torrance, California, where John established a successful financial planning firm, retiring after more than five decades in the business.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Kirk was deeply involved in community service. His roles included president of the South Bay Sunrise Rotary Club, member of Toastmasters International, and board chair for The Arc South Bay. He also served as the chairman of the board of managers at the Torrance YMCA and as president of the South Bay Association of Chambers of Commerce.
Kirk’s commitment to community extended to his church, the First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach, where he became an active member in 1961. He played a crucial role in establishing the church’s endowment fund and chaired numerous boards and committees over the years.
John Kirk is survived by his wife, Alice, their children John Kirk (Mindy), Kathy McCandless (Richard), and Rebecca Kirk, as well as ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is also remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service and reception will be held at 11:00 AM on January 10, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church located at 243 S. Broadway, Redondo Beach, CA 90277. Friends, family, and community members are invited to honor a man whose legacy of love, service, and dedication will be cherished for generations to come.
