David George Kirkman, 77, transitioned to his soul’s next journey March 7, 2019.
He received an Associate’s Degree from Purdue University in Computer Science and had extensive technical training with IBM. He was a veteran of the US Army. Dave had a long career as a Project Manager at Columbia House Record Club in Terre Haute.
Dave went on his walk with Jesus in 1990 with West Central Indiana Emmaus #35. He was a member of Memorial United Methodist Church, where he was Head Usher from 1987-1995, and also was a Sunday School Teacher and Chairman of Evangelism. His hobbies include sports and British sports cars.
Dave’s volunteer service and community involvement include the Optimist Club, from 1991 to present; United Way Board of Directors from 1983-1988 (recipient of the Richard D. Newport Award in 1985); Red Cross Board of Directors from 1985-1990; Car Alliance Representative from 1983-1989; March of Dimes from 1988-1989; Glenn Civic Center Board of Directors from 1990-1995; Terre Haute South Little League Board from 1988-1995; Habitat for Humanity in 1991 and 1994-1995; Mentor for Youth Leadership Terre Haute Program; and coached basketball at the Glenn Center for 10 years.
Dave is survived by his wife, Karen Kirkman; his children, Scott, Jamie, and Kyle Kirkman; siblings, Lou, Leffel, and Brian Kirkman; and grandchildren, Gram, Jasper, Toby, and Willow Kirkman; and step-children, Rebecca (husband Michel) Pascal and Robert S. Hoke, II.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ellen (Moss) and Major Vaughn Kirkman; son, John; and sister, Koni Brownell.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Optimist Club.
Friends may visit from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 18, 2019 at Indiana Funeral Care – Harry W. Moore Chapel, 8151 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, Indiana. A Memorial Service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Joe Johnson officiating. Indiana Funeral Care entrusted with care.
Shirley Bradshaw says
Karen, John & I are very sorry to hear
of the passing of your husband, David. Know that Our thoughts & prayers are with you. God Bless & Love, Shirley & John
DARREL J PAUL says
David was always a trustworthy person and good person to have as a friend. He was always giving to others of his wealth and the most valuable gift of time. He will truly be missed. Wendi and I are not able to attend the service on the 18th, but will keep his family in my thoughts. Darrel & Wendi Paul
Rick Posson says
A true Optimist and a very kind man shall be remembered by everyone who ever had the opportunity of meeting him. Prayers are with the family!
Debbie Rowe, Fishers Optimist Club says
I am so glad I had the brief opportunity to know David. He was a poster boy for “The Optimist Creed”!! “To wear a cheerful countenance at all time and give every living creature you meet a smile.” He always had a smile and kind word for everyone he came in contact with. He will be missed.
ELBERT BRADSHAW says
Dave is at peace. What a friend Dave was. He and I shared
many experiences about raising money for the Optimist
Foundation. I visited him when could not speak a word. HE
SMILED AT ME, THAT MEANT A LOT TO BOTH OF US. We
WILL MISS HIM. HE GAVE A LOT AND TOUCHED MANY LIVES.
TO KAREN AND THE FAMILY I HAVE BEEN PRAYING FOR DAVE AND I WILL CONTINUE my prayers for Karen & family.
Jean Ford says
Dave was a special guy. He truly cared about everyone he had contact with. Always had a smile and a kind word. He will be missed.
Chuck Curry says
I will miss Dave. He was a great, giving, and caring person. He was one of the first people to visit me in the hospital when I had my stroke. He was ALWAYS ready with a smile and helping hand. He was genuine and caring at all times. He will be missed by myself and others. He is probably starting a car club in heaven.
Lindsey says
I am so sorry to hear of the death of David. The passing away of a loved one is always with much sorrow. May we have faith and confidence in the Bible’s promise of a time when pain, sickness and death are a thing of the past (Revelation 21:3, 4). My condolences are with the family at this difficult time.
Pastor Joseph Johnson says
David was a man of courage. He will be missed
Bethe Arisman says
Stephen and I were so sad to hear that David had passed. David always had a smile, a kind word, and an Optimist message. We have spent many hours with David and he was the “genuine” thing. His time here was filled with good, and we have no doubt that he is carrying the Optimist message onward. Rest peacefully David. Promise yourself……………………….
Terri Cook says
I am so very sorry to read of David’s passing. May your family find peace and comfort from “the God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3&4) during this difficult time. My deepest condolences.
Melissa Freet says
Condolences to the family. Dave was such an awesome man. So glad I was able to know and work with him.
Tony L. Trimble says
Tony Trimble, Past Governor Optimist International South District
It was my privilege to know David for many years. He was a terrific fundraiser for the Optimist International Foundation and was always ready to do whatever was needed by our organization. I will miss our chats about baseball and reminiscing about Terre Haute. He truly embodied the words of the Optimist Creed.
Lantz&Larraine Snider says
So sad to hear of the passing of David. He always had a contagious smile and we never heard a cross word. He served his country well and lived a rewarding life. We will miss him.
Our condolences to Karen, Becky and Michel as well as his extended family.
Kelly H. Stevenson says
Dave was a great friend and fellow auto enthusiast. We shared many fabulous times on trips in or British Cars. RIP Dave and God Bless Karen. Kelly & Sandy
Richard Liddick says
I didn’t know Dave well but are both members of the Spurious V-8 Club it’s always sad having someone move on. Condolences to his family & friends.
Wayne Kube says
I enjoyed the times I was around Dave during the British V8 and Spurious V8 events. I will miss him!
Bill Yobi says
Dave, I will miss you. I would always look forward to seeing your smiling face, and good humor, your encouragement and enthusiasm, would up lift my spirit. You are an inspiration, in the way you always remained cheerful. Thank you for your friendship, and your service to others. I enjoyed our conversations, and an a game of catch with my son Joe. May the Lord welcome you home with the words “Well done good and faithful servant.” (Matt 25:21)
Peace and Love, to Karen, family and friends.
Mike and Kay Maloney says
Dave, you will be missed. I always enjoyed our conversations regarding sports and British cars over the years. One of my fondest memories is of our joint trip to Colorado Springs with you and your brother Lou. Kay and I are blessed to have known you. God Bless my friend….
Paul Schils says
Dave, I don’t have the words to describe the loss of your friendship, your great attitude and your never ending smile. Mary and I always looked forward to seeing you at the MG events. God Bless you and your family.
Rick Tuttle says
Dave was a special person, always will ing to help.
Rick Tuttle says
Dave was a special person, always willing to help.
Joyce Kirkman says
Karen, my sincere condolences are with you at this difficult time. Dave will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for being so kind when I visited Dave with Jamie last June. God bless you and all of Dave’s family. May he rest in peace.