John Paul Kirk, Sr., a cherished member of his community, 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 and grandchildren, Kirk left behind a legacy of service, love, and adventure.
A Life Rich in Family and Service
Born on March 14, 1931, in Ashland, Alabama, to Daniel P. Kirk and Clara I. Kirk, John was the youngest of eleven siblings. He maintained close ties with his large family throughout his life, frequently visiting Ashland and nurturing lifelong friendships.
After graduating from Clay County High School in 1949, John enlisted in the Army Air Corps, now known as the Air Force. He was stationed at Amarillo Air Force Base, where he taught aircraft electronics. It was during his service that he met Alice, marrying her on December 27, 1952. Together, they raised three children: John, Jr., Kathy, and Rebecca, and welcomed ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, with another expected in January 2026.
A Passion for Learning and Community Engagement
John moved with Alice to Atlanta, where he earned an equivalent of an Associate’s degree from Southern Tech. He later returned to college at the age of 76, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Professional Aeronautics from Embry Riddle University. His love for aviation led him to take flying lessons, earning his pilot’s license, and he cherished sharing these experiences with Alice.
After his time in the Air Force, John worked in the oil industry and later spent several years in Bogotá, Colombia, where he and Alice created lasting memories and friendships. Upon returning to the United States, they settled in Torrance, California, where John embarked on a successful career in financial planning, founding his own investment firm. He dedicated over 50 years to the industry before retiring.
John was also deeply committed to community service. As a member and president of the South Bay Sunrise Rotary Club and a board member of The Arc South Bay, he made significant contributions to various local organizations. He served as the chairman of the board of managers at the Torrance YMCA and held leadership roles in the South Bay Association of Chambers of Commerce and the Harbor City/Harbor Gateway Chamber of Commerce.
In 1961, John and Alice joined the First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach, where they remained active members. John’s leadership was instrumental in establishing the church’s endowment fund, and he led many committees over the years, earning the respect and affection of his fellow congregants.
John Paul Kirk is survived by his wife, Alice; their children, John Kirk (Mindy), Kathy McCandless (Richard), and Rebecca Kirk; as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family will remember him not only for his accomplishments but also for his unwavering support and love.
A memorial service celebrating John’s life will take place at 11:00 AM on January 10, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church, located at 243 S. Broadway, Redondo Beach, CA 90277. Family, friends, and community members are invited to honor his memory and the impact he had on their lives.
