Kevin J. Kirk

Kevin James Kirk passed away Wednesday, October 11, 2023, in Philip, SD. Kevin was born January 11, 1971, in Gordon, NE, to parents John (Jack) W. Kirk and Essie M. Kirk-White Face.

Kevin initially grew up in Pine Ridge, SD, then moved to Sioux Falls, SD, where he graduated from O’Gorman High School in 1989. Upon graduation, he moved to Fremont, California, to enjoy the warmer weather and to attend Ohlone College. Kevin was involved in multiple clubs and organizations within the college and was recognized for his contributions, most notably his Senator position with the Associated Students of Ohlone College for two consecutive years. He graduated with his Associate of Arts degree in 1994 and continued his education at San Jose State University, receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work in May 1998.

Commitment to his community while attending school led Kevin to log hundreds of volunteer hours for the cities of Fremont, Hayward, and San Leandro, CA. Kevin worked as a social worker in Fremont, CA, for a short time and later went to work at Ohlone College for a number of years as a media specialist helping students much like himself, before retiring in 2014.

Kevin lived with several disabilities and health issues throughout his life. His determination and perseverance were an inspiration to the rest of us as he learned to overcome these challenges. However, due to declining health, he returned home to South Dakota and resided at the Bennett County Nursing Home in Martin, SD.

Kevin will be deeply missed. The family would like to extend gratitude to the staff for the care he received while residing at the Bennett County Nursing Home and most recently the Kadoka Nursing Home.

Kevin is survived by his father John W. (Jack) Kirk, his mother Essie M. Kirk-White Face, brother Brian (Jean) Kirk, sisters Mary Kirk, Shawn (Brett) Rigg, Erin (Jay) Selby, Becki (Jeremy) Dixon and Megan White Face and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother John Kirk and grandparents Bill and Allie Mae Jackson and Sam and Irene Kirk.

Services will be held Monday October 16, 2023, 11:00 AM at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church with burial in the Martin Community Cemetery, Martin, SD.