The community of Redondo Beach, California, is mourning the passing of John P. Kirk, Sr., who died peacefully at the age of 94 on December 9, 2025. Surrounded by his loving family, including his wife of 73 years, Alice, and their children, Kirk’s life was celebrated for its deep commitment to family, community, and service.
Born on March 14, 1931, in Ashland, Alabama, John was the youngest child of Daniel P. and Clara I. Kirk. He cherished his roots, often returning to Ashland to reconnect with his extensive family, which included 10 siblings. After graduating from Clay County High School in 1949, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps, now known as the Air Force, where he served as a teacher of aircraft electronics at Amarillo Air Force Base.
A Life of Achievement and Adventure
It was in Amarillo that he met Alice, and they married on December 27, 1952. Together, they raised three children: John, Jr., Kathy, and Rebecca, and welcomed a growing family with 10 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, with another expected in January 2026.
After his military service, John and Alice moved to Atlanta, where he pursued further education at Southern Tech. He later earned a BS in Professional Aeronautics from Embry Riddle University at the age of 76, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to learning. John was also an avid pilot, holding a small plane license for over 50 years, during which he earned multiple ratings, including instrument and commercial.
John and Alice’s journey took them to Bogotá, Colombia, for several years, enriching their lives with cultural experiences and lifelong friendships. Upon returning to the United States, they settled in Torrance, California, where John established a successful career in financial planning, operating his own investment company for over 50 years before retiring.
Legacy of Service and Community Engagement
John’s commitment to community service was profound. He held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including serving as president of the South Bay Sunrise Rotary Club and as a board member of The Arc South Bay. His contributions extended to the Torrance YMCA and the South Bay Association of Chambers of Commerce. He was a dedicated member of the First United Methodist Church of Redondo Beach, where he played a key role in establishing the church’s endowment fund.
John Kirk is survived by his wife, Alice; their children, John Kirk (Mindy), Kathy McCandless (Richard), and Rebecca Kirk; and their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His impact on the community and his family will be remembered fondly.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on January 10, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church, located at 243 S. Broadway, Redondo Beach, CA 90277. Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of a remarkable man who dedicated himself to his loved ones and his community.
