Chris Edward Kirkwood

The angels came down and collected Chris Edward Kirkwood, 74, Topeka, Kansas on Friday,

May 17th, 2024.

He was born on September 15, 1949, to Patience and John Kirkwood in Joplin, Missouri. Chris

is survived by his wife Donna, son Trevor, granddaughters Makenzie and Preslee, four nieces

and one nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Thomas C.

Kirkwood.

Chris graduated from Chanute High School in Chanute, Kansas in 1967 and attended every

high school reunion. He was a 1971 graduate of Pittsburg State University. In May of 2022, he

was recognized at the 50th anniversary celebration for the class of 1971 and attended many

homecoming games. One of his favorite sayings "Once a Gorilla, always a Gorilla!".

He was a proud member of the Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity at Pitt State where he formed

many lifelong friendships including their annual "Mad Dog Open" golf tournaments.

After moving to Topeka, he was a member of the St. Patrick's Day parade committee for 30

years, assisting with parade preparation and day of events.

He spent many days attending, coaching, keeping score, refereeing sports, especially during his

son's time playing. Chris loved sports and always said it was the best of times watching Trevor

on the football field and later his granddaughters dance, soccer, and volleyball games and

tournaments!

Chris was employed by Southwestern Bell and HIBU, selling yellow page advertising for 34

years. In retirement, he worked part time for Briggs Auto Group transporting cars across

Northeast Kansas and the country.

It was a point of his to always make it be known how much he loved his friends and family,

telling them often. He had an incredible aura of brightness and kindness and began each day

with a heart full of love and gratitude. He will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.