Donald Eugene Kirk

Donald Eugene Kirk, age 78, died Friday, May 2, 2025, at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, Kansas.

He was born on March 10, 1947, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and was the beloved son of Asberry Doyle and Dora Beatrice (Estes) Kirk. Proud of his Cherokee Indian descent, Donald carried his heritage with honor throughout his life.

On March 5, 1966, Donald was united in marriage to Judy V. Hardin in Liberal, Kansas. They were married for 59 years and the parents of three sons, Kelly, Kevin, and Brian.

Donald dedicated his professional life as a car man for the Rock Island Railroad, which later became known as Cotton Belt Railroad and Southern Pacific Railroad. His commitment to public service was evident through his 26 years of honorable service as a Reserve Officer with the Liberal Police Department. His entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly in the small engine repair business he owned, where his passion and skill were unmistakable.

Donald’s love for the outdoors was reflected in his hobbies, which included camping, fishing, and hunting. His greatest joy, however, was spending cherished moments with his grandchildren, creating lifelong memories during their camping trips. Donald was affectionately known as the "Best Grandpa in the world," a testament to the deep love and dedication he showed to his family. He was also known to have a good joke.

Donald’s legacy of love, dedication, and humor will forever be cherished by all who had the honor of knowing him. His spirit continues to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Kirk of Liberal, Kansas

Sons, Kelly Kirk and spouse, Christy of Liberal, Kansas,

Kevin Kirk and spouse, Traci of Willis, Texas, and

Brian Kirk of Independence, Kansas,

Brother, Paul Kirk and spouse, Reba of Beaver, Oklahoma,

Sisters, Donna Peeke and spouse, Dick of Perham, Minnesota,

Tracy Baker and spouse, Scott of Frazee, Minnesota,

eleven grandchildren, Devin Aldava and spouse, Jose,

Tarin Brungardt and spouse, Tyler,

Laken Lamberson,

Alyssa Acosta and spouse, Tomas,

Nicole Fuchs and spouse, Michael,

Kaitlyn Kirk and Carlos Avelino,

Koby Kirk,

Kylie Kirk,

Anniston Colby,

Britain Colby, and

Calleigh Colby,

Seven Great Grandchildren, Arabelle Brungardt,

Hendrix Aldava,

Jaxxen Aldava,

Evan Aldava,

Eden Aldava,

Tomas Acosta, and

Anthony Acosta.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Asberry and Dora Kirk,

brother, Doyle Kirk,

Great grandchildren, Harper Fuchs, and

Everly Fuchs.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 AM, Friday, May 9, 2025, at the CrossPoint Church, 204 N. Sherman, in Liberal, Kansas with Pastor Jonathan Zamora presiding.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Southwest Miracles in care of Hornung Family Funeral Home, 1212 W 2nd Street, Liberal, Kansas.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.hornungfuneralhome.com