Kirk graduated from Dixie College in St. George where his studies included both art and journalism. He later attended the University of Utah, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Business/Marketing and a Master’s Degree in Communication. Upon earning his degree, he pursued journalism, temporarily setting aside his passion for painting, which he developed a love and talent for in his youth.

He met and married Gwen and raised a fun and loving family. His hard work provided many wonderful opportunities for their family. Kirk’s children were his greatest treasures.

After several newspaper positions in California, Nevada and Utah, Kirk became publisher of the Provo Daily Herald in 1986. He managed the Herald for 20 years, during which he was actively involved in community affairs and served as president of the Utah Press Association and the Provo Rotary Club.

After retiring from the publishing industry in 2007, Kirk returned to his artistic roots. He has enjoyed the opportunity to travel the West and paint, both outdoors and in the studio. Kirk received various tributes, and his art is recognized both regionally and nationally as a colorful representation of the West’s beautiful scenery, particularly Southern Utah.

He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many capacities. His favorite calling was serving as a counselor in a BYU Singles Student Ward while maintaining his “Ute” status.

As a husband, father and grandfather, Kirk was best known as “Papa K”. He cherished being a father and grandfather greatly and was delighted with each new member of his family. He was able to spend time with each of his treasured grandchildren and they dearly loved him.

Kirk loved to hunt, camp, four-wheel and fish. He loved the outdoors and taught his children to love the outdoors as well by including them in all of his activities. He was a wonderful husband and an exceptional father. He was well read and the one we all went to for any knowledge, also affectionately known as a “sports trivia statistician” all by memory. We will miss his teachings, humor, unconditional love and steady influence in our lives.

Kirk is survived by his wife, Gwen; his sons, Jason (Kate) and Cole (Carla) and six grandchildren: Grey, Collins, Stella, Kai, Alta and Sloane. He is also survived by two sisters: Donalu (Jeff) O’Neil and Sara Kutz. Kirk was preceded in death by his special “Pally Pal” as he often called his daughter, Terra. We know she was first to greet him on the other side and enjoyed going for a “beverage” as they often did. He was never the same without her.

Kirk was also preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Tim.

A viewing and visitation will be held on Sunday, January 11, from 5-7p.m. in the Mapleton 7th Ward Building. 1580 N Main St, Mapleton, UT 84664

Interment will be at the Mapleton City Cemetery.