Stephen L. Kirk Jr., age 86 of Knoxville, passed away peacefully on June 29 at University of Tennessee Medical Center. He was surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Mr. Kirk was born on Sept. 29, 1938, in Knoxville. He was the eldest son of eight children born to Stephen L. Kirk Sr. and Anna Mae Kirk. He grew up in Knoxville, where he was a graduate of Knoxville Catholic High School, class of 1957.
Mr. Kirk earned a business degree from Knoxville Business College in 1959 and 1976. He served in the U.S. Army from 1961 until 1967.
Mr. Kirk owned and operated Kirk’s Catering. In addition to his daily route, he catered events such as boat regattas, and auctions, and was a staple on Saturdays in the fall at University of Tennessee football games.
He was a loving husband for 51 years to his wife, Gerry, also of Knoxville. He was the foundation of strength and support for his family. Together, Mr. and Mrs. Kirk raised two children, Stephen L. III and Vanessa. He was a devoted father who offered guidance, love, and kindness.
Mr. Kirk was a doting grandfather who adored his grandchildren. He cherished spending time with family. He brought warmth and happiness to those around him. He loved to laugh and share stories about his past.
He had many passions in life: he was dedicated to caring for others; he was a loving son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather; and he was a charter member of his parish, the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
He was a Fourth Degree Knight and honorary lifetime member in the Knights of Columbus Council 5207. He always had a sense of humor that could light up the room.
Mr. Kirk is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Bassett Montgomery; and his brother, Monsignor Thomas Kirk. He is survived by his wife, Gerry; his children Stephen L. (Amy) Kirk III and Vanessa (Greg) Draeger; and three grandchildren, Lorenzo IV, Xavier, and Kirklyn; his siblings, Joe B. (Helen) Kirk Sr., Anne (Jay) Gallegos, Father John Kirk, Joan (Russ) Lyttle, and Philip (Suzanne) Kirk, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.
A funeral Mass for Mr. Kirk was celebrated on July 8 at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Father David Boettner served as the celebrant with Father Martin Gladysz concelebrating. Father John Kirk and Father John O’Neill were in choir.
Burial followed at Calvary Cemetery in Knoxville.
Donations in Mr. Kirk’s memory may be made to the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, 711 S. Northshore Dr., Knoxville, TN 37919.