Robert "BOB" L. Kirk

Robert "BOB" L. Kirk, 76, passed away Friday, Jan. 5th at Kalispell Regional Hospital with all his children at his side. Bob was born in Somers, Mont. on Dec. 27, 1930 to Arthur & Edna (Ritzman) Kirk.

He was raised on the family farm and attended Somers School. According to Bob, he walked five miles to school, uphill…both ways! Bob graduated from Flathead County High School where he excelled in football, basketball and track. He received his degree in education from the University of Montana where he was also a member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity. Bob's military career started with the ROTC. He went into the Air force as an officer and received his wings as a multi engine pilot.

In 1953 he married K. Phyllis Treweek of Kalispell. He taught 8th grade at Evergreen School before embarking upon his career in the banking industry. He started at 1st National Bank as a loan officer and retired several years later from Conrad National Bank (1st Interstate Bank) as Vice President.

Those fortunate enough to experience Bob as their friend knew that they could count on him during troubled times. A quiet knock on the door would announce that Bob, with tool box in hand, was there to help. His community involvement also included the Jaycees, the Elks and the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce.

Bob gave his children the greatest gift of all…. the gift of his time. Many memories were made while camping, fishing and recreating in Bob's beloved Flathead Valley. Winter seasons for the Kirk kids were spent at Big Mountain where Bob taught his children to ski and eventually supported them in their skiing and racing adventures. Summer seasons were enjoyed at Echo Lake. With Bob at the helm, the Kirk boat ran continuously through the days with the beginner learning to ski while the experts doled out advice. Sounds of laughter punctuated the nightly campfires - YABBA-DABBA-DOO!!!

In his later years, Grandpa Bob earned the name of "Mr. Mom". Always willing to help out, Grandpa Bob traveled to Missoula, Denton, Washington State or wherever he was needed. Donning an apron for either cooking a meal or building a deck, Bob was always there to help his children. He so enjoyed watching the grandkids participate in their football, basketball & baseball games. Chuckling as they tried to emulate a cast, belt out a song, or create a curveball, Bob enjoyed the milestones of his grandchildren's lives.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Edna & Arthur Kirk, his siblings Patricia Kirk (age 3), Arthur (Ernie) Kirk, Edwin Kirk and Joyce Kirk Buscho.

Survivors include daughter Barbara Cook of Kalispell, Mont. and her children Andy Kirk, Katy Cook & Jayne Cook ; Daughter Janice Carter & her husband Jack of Denton, Mont. and their children Beau & Josey; Son Tim Kirk and his wife Connie of Missoula, Mont. and their children Tyler, Mac & Cody; Daughter Deanna Peck and her husband Thom of Bigfork, Mont. and their children Taylor and Kylie; Great Grandchildren Andy and Andrea'.

Funeral Services for Robert Kirk will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday Jan. 9 at the First Presbyterian Church with Reverend Glenn Burfeind officiating. Burial will follow at Conrad Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, January 8 at Johnson Mortuary.

Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army 110 Bountiful Drive Kalispell, MT 59901 or the American Heart Association 510 1st Avenue North #114 Great Falls, MT 59401or to the donor's choice.