Donald E. Kirt, age 85, of Gaylord, Michigan, and Zephyrhills, Florida, passed away peacefully at his Florida home, on Friday, November 15, 2019. Don was born on April 25, 1934, in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan, to Elizabeth Ann Holmes.
Upon graduation from Sault Ste Marie High School, Don enlisted with the US Army; honorably serving in Korea. After completing his tour of duty with the Army, Don joined the ranks of the Michigan State Police in 1955, proudly serving for 25 years at various posts, becoming an accomplished sharpshooter, and retiring from the Gaylord State Police Post in 1980. Following that retirement, he was employed with Standard Products [Cooper Standard].
On September 29, 1956, Don married Joan Wilson, in Jackson, Michigan, and lovingly achieved the 50 year golden anniversary milestone until her death in 2007. Don not only had one love of his life, he was blessed to enjoy 10 years of happiness married to Elisa (Lisa) Hunter-Kirt, who survives him.
Don was a loving father and very involved with his children, as well as other youth in the community. He was one of the initial organizers of, and remained involved for many years with the Punt, Pass & Kick contest. He was Little League coach for the majors and seniors, managing the Zaremba and Alpine Oil teams.
Together with Joan, Don bought a small 40-acre farm in Sparr, where they resided for a decade, raising their children and a variety of animals. Don was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 1518.
In addition to his wife, Lisa, Don is survived by his children, Bonny Jo Downing, Marie Kirt, Donald T. Kirt, and Bill (Hope) Kirt; grandchildren, Brendan (Emily) Downing, Megan Downing, Kirt (Amanda) Roach, Patrick Roach, Nadia (Jeremiah) Hoover, Lorne Washburn, Andrew (Lisa) Kirt, Isaac Washburn, and Bernie (Kelsey) Kirt; and great-grandchildren, Annabelle, Miller, and Wyatt. In addition to being predeceased by his wife, Joan, Don was also preceded in death by his grandson, William (Billy) Roach.
7/30/2020 Updates
Due to the recent COVID-19 restrictions, the memorial service has changed to 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 1, 2020, at Resurrection, Cemetery.
17 comments on “Donald E. Kirt”
Rest in Peace my friend.
My condolences to Bonny, Lisa, and the entire family.
An honorable life WELL lived!
Have many fond memories of the Kirt family including the day that Don first came to Soo High! Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Hope to be with you in the spring as you celebrate Dons life. Nancy Forcier—Stuart Fl
My deepest sympathy Bonny, and family, in the loss of your father. Wishing you peace, comfort, and hope, in the midst of your sorrow.
Bonnie, Marie, Don, and Bill, So sorry for your loss. Your Dad was a great guy and, since I’ve known your family for basically my whole life, I feel for you all in this time of sadness. I also know he will live on in your hearts and the memories of a life well-lived will carry you. Sincerely, Pete McCutcheon
To the entire Kirt family … I (along with the entire Head family) offer my sincere condolences in the loss of your father. Our families spent much time together at your farm in Sparr and were linked together forever as the children of MSP troopers. I will always hold wonderful memories of your parents. May you all celebrate his life with love and laughter. Hugs to all!
Sending our sincere condolences to the entire family. He was a man committed to his family as well as his community. Hope the memories you have together bring you some peace.
Bonnie, Marie, Don, and Bill,
We are so sorry for your loss-it is so tough to lose your parents and our hearts are with you all. Seeing your dads pictures brings back many fond memories in Sparr, playing in the barn or around the pond. It takes one right back to those fun times and fun memories.
We are also thankful for your dads service in the state police! May God Bless you all!!
Linda (Tuck) and John Gall
Marie, Bonnie & family,
We were so sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing. He was quite a guy. We enjoyed visiting with him and Lisa at your annual picnic. Please know you are all in our prayers.
Keeping you all in our hearts at this sad time. Love Kevin & Rose
RIP Don !! 🙏🙏
Marie
So sorry for the loss of your dad. He was a visionary and leader. Your family is and was blessed.
To the Kirt family,
Don was a great friend and will surely be missed!
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
RIP Don, you have a lot of friends up there with you!
Vince
My husband and I just saw this. So shocked and sad. We had no idea! We loved this family! We are so deeply saddened we did not know. With deepest sympathy. Dennis and Jane Lange. Jerry and Pat Lange.
So Sorry to hear about Don. Every time I drive past his old house on M32, I think of the Kirts! Gonna miss him! God Bless the Family!
Sending our condolences to the Kirt family.
Keeping you in our prayers.
Bud & Pat Robarge
To the entire Kirt family,
My condolences on the loss of your husband, father, and grandfather. I pray for your comfort and peace as you continue earthly life without him.