Tom Kirk passed away on October 16, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado, following a very short illness. He was surrounded by his family.

Tom was born on August 25, 1947, in Brookfield, Missouri, to A.C. Kirk and Billie Keating. He graduated from Emporia High School in 1965 and went on to serve four years in the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Columbus, Mississippi, where he worked as a water plant operator.

Tom was preceded in death by his father, A.C. Kirk; his mother, Billie Keating; and his brother, David.

He is survived by his wife, Deanna; brother, Steve; two sons, David (Julie) and Steven (Tamra); and five grandchildren, Jaden, Amara, Balin, Jack, and Elliot.

Tom and Deanna met in Emporia, Kansas and were married on November 24, 1967. Together, they shared nearly 59 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith and community. Their active lifestyle and sons living in Colorado led them from Kansas to Colorado in 1997 and, in 2014, to Grand Junction.

Tom truly lived life to the fullest. He was an avid road cyclist, enjoyed playing golf every week, and was active in his church and community. He was also an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous, celebrating 38 years of sobriety. Through AA, Tom shared his experience, strength, and hope with countless people. His kindness, encouragement, and friendship made a lasting difference in the lives of many.

A service celebrating Tom’s life will be held on November 13 at 1:00 p.m. at Gospel Way Baptist Church. An Air Force military service will follow at 3:00 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Tom’s legacy of service and sobriety will live on in the many lives he touched.