William George Kirkwood

He was born on October 28, 1921, the eldest of 5 children, to George and Emma (Dammann) Kirkwood in Lake City, Minnesota, where he also grew up. After completing high school, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps., and served honorably in World War II in the Pacific Theater. When he returned home he married Lillian Van Geem (whom he later divorced) of Waukegan, Illinois, and raised their family of 2 girls and 2 boys there. He worked as a toolmaker for 40 years, and worked for Outboard Marine Corporation for 24 years before he retired. He then met Lillian Saranpaa, and they were wed in 1977. In 1984, upon his retirement, he moved to Arizona. Golf was his passion, and William also liked to travel, spending his summers in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and also in Alaska. He was a member of the American Legion, the VFW, the 2nd Marine Division Association, and All Saints Lutheran Church in Phoenix.

William is survived by his wife, Lillian E. Kirkwood; 4 children, Patricia Ann Kirkwood, Richard William Kirkwood (Jody), Peggy Lee Kirkwood (Arthur Holloway), William David Kirkwood (Amy); step-son, Kirk Rzepecki; grandchildren Christina Kirkwood, Katherine Kirkwood, James Kirkwood (Jessica), Joel Kirkwood (Rachel), Caleb Kirkwood; great-granddaughter Audrey Kirkwood; sister Marcella Olmstead; brother Charles (John) Kirkwood and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Robert Kirkwood and sister Donna “Mickey” Kirtz.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 8, at 11:00 am at All Saints Lutheran Church, 15649 N. 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85022. Arrangements were entrusted to Valley of the Sun Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to All Saints Lutheran Church.