Leon S Kirk

Leon S. Kirk, a long-time resident of Colorado Springs, passed away on January 9, 2022, at the age of 91. He was the first of S.C. and Evelyn L. Kirk's (nee Keen) Seven children, born on May 31, 1930, in Sullivan, Illinois. After attending school in the area, and working as a welder at George Tractor, a division of Community Industries in Sullivan, Illinois, he left, making his way to New Mexico where he attended the University of New Mexico.

Before graduating, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served as an instructor at Lackland Air Force Base, and then was accepted into the Aviation Cadet Program and upon completion of his training was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant. Leon attained his rating as a navigator and Electronic Warfare Officer and was posted to bases across the country and the world, including Texas, Mississippi, Japan, California, Colorado Springs, and the Pentagon. He served as the Commander at Fort Yukon, Alaska, and eventually retired with the rank of Major in Colorado Springs.

After 22 years in the Air Force, Leon embarked on a Second successful career in aerospace, working for Systems Development Corporation, Burroughs and then Unisys. He often joked about keeping handy for the name changes. Starting as a one-man operation, he built an organization, managed and mentored employees, while still finding time to complete his Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Southern Colorado-Pueblo and MBA from UCCS.

He and his wife Claire retired in 1992 and enjoyed years of travel. Leon's family fondly remembers his many talents -- from helping with school projects, building and fixing things, to occasionally playing the accordion. He contributed to the communities in which he lived, serving as the President of the Brookwood and Cypress Ridge Homeowners' Associations, a board member with the Symphony Volunteers, and a candidate for City Council. Leon's parents and brothers Julian and Francis preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife Claire, his siblings Quentin, Ralph, Mary Esther, and Lenora, his children Jeffery Kirk, Jennifer Whitesides, and James Kirk, stepchildren Karen Brody (Michael), Deborah Hamilton (Patrick), and Paul Brody (Murial), and four grandchildren. A memorial and celebration of his life will be held in the coming months.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Swan-Law.com for the Kirk family.