John Charles Birkimer

Dr. John Charles Birkimer, 84, of Louisville, KY, died on Tuesday, October 8th, 2024. After a years-long battle with cancer, he was hospitalized for several weeks and entered hospice care three days before his death. He passed away peacefully in his sleep.

Dr. Birkimer was born on March 18th, 1940 in New Lexington, OH to parents Eileen Johnson Birkimer and Edgar Birkimer. They moved to Cleveland, OH while he was in high school. He attended Ohio State University for undergraduate and graduate school, receiving a Ph.D. in Psychology in 1966. He arrived at the University of Louisville that fall, where he was a professor of psychology for 40 years.

During his academic career, he published over 40 research papers in scientific journals and two chapters in books. He presented research at over 60 professional conferences, chaired more than 20 master’s and doctoral committees, and oversaw more than 60 independent studies. In 1999, he received the College of Arts and Sciences’ and the University’s Distinguished Teaching Professor Award.

Dr. Birkimer was a member of his high school football team, and was a track runner in high school and college. He ran multiple marathons and half-marathons, as well as countless 5Ks and 10Ks throughout his life. He was also an avid cyclist and rode his bike well into his 60s.

As a member of Crescent Hill Baptist Church, Dr. Birkimer enjoyed his work as a volunteer and deacon. He was active in the Solidarity Sunday School class, participated in child care during services, built the church’s first website and email list in the 90s, and was proactive in the congregation’s decision in 2013 to become a welcoming and inclusive church.

Dr. Birkimer is preceded in death by his son, John Matthew Birkimer, and his former wife, Suzanne Foraker Birkimer. He is survived by his devoted wife Sharleen Johnson Birkimer; his brother Donald Leo Birkimer of Camarillo, CA; his daughter Amy (Steven) Mulroy of Memphis, TN; his grandson Quinn Mulroy of Chicago, IL; his granddaughter Molly (Abdellah) Amarir; and great-grandson Anir Amarir of Nashville, TN.

Dr. Birkimer’s ashes will be scattered at Cave Hill Cemetery’s Twin Lakes Scattering Garden during a private ceremony with his family. Condolence cards would be much appreciated and can be sent to Arch L. Heady and Son Funeral Home, 7410 Westport Rd, Louisville, Ky 40222.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society.