George Kirkham

George Merril Kirkham left this Earth for his new home in Heaven on Friday, June 23, 2017. He was and will continue to be a most amazing man to his family and friends. George’s top priority in life was to be a good husband, father and grandfather to his family. He is survived by wife of 61 years Bonnie Kirkham and children: Sons Mark Kirkham and Marty Kirkham (Jen), Kathy Kirkham (predeceased 1999), Son-in-law Darryl Howes, Grandsons Dillon and Kyle Howes, brothers Donald, Wayne and Bob along with sisters Cleo, Barbara and Irene, In-laws Carol Bryant and Doug Heller and many cousins. George was born in Portland, OR on April 7, 1933. He was the 7th of ten children born to Harry and Elizabeth Kirkham. At 2 years old, his family moved to Rome, NY. George left home at the age of 16 to work his first job as a florist. He met Bonnie as the blind date of his brother at a barn dance. Bonnie and George fell madly in love with each other and were married on June 23, 1956. George was drafted a little over one month later and served in the Army overseas in Germany as a medic from 1956 to 1958. He returned once on leave in 1957 and nine months later Mark was born. Soon after his return in 1958, Kathy was born. After seeing the movie “Colorado Kid” at a Saturday matinee, George dreamed of moving to Colorado to be a cowboy. With two small children, he moved his family to Denver Colorado to begin a new life and live out his dream. He owned and ran a Texaco gas station and had 2 race cars. He enjoyed racing and watching many Bronco games. George and Bonnie welcomed Marty to the family in 1967 and placed a Broncos football in his crib. In 1998, George retired and toured 48 states with his wife, Bonnie, in their motor home. They had many adventures and he was a true character that loved to laugh and cause mischief. On the day of his passing, he and Bonnie celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary. We release him now in peace and love. Visitation from 9am to 10am and Services: Olinger Morturary 10201 Grant St. Thornton, CO 80229 on Friday, July 14 from 10am to 11:30am. Reception at Thornton Estates 3600 E. 88th Thornton, CO 80229 from 3:30 to 5:30pm. In lieu of flowers or food, you may donate to the charity of your choice or send donations to The Denver Hospice (in remembrance of George Kirkham) 501 S. Cherry Street, Suite # 700 Denver, CO 80246.

Arrangements under the direction of Olinger Highland Mortuary & Cemetery, Thornton, CO.