Dorothy M. Kirk

For those who knew her best, Dot had both a quiet dignity and a twinkle in her eye – and loved indulging her “sweet tooth”. But her vitality was far from frivolous.

She was born in Orange, Massachusetts, December 21, 1908, the daughter of Herbert Norris and Florence Lucinda (Ellis) Kirk. The family moved to a house in Keene built by her father and uncle. That house was home to Dot from her teens through 98 years of age. Dot graduated from Keene High School in 1926 and continued her education, graduating from Northampton Commercial College.

Dot began her work life in 1939 as a billing clerk at the Elliot Community Hospital and its transition to the Cheshire Medical Center / Dartmouth Hitchcock, Keene. A meaningful career unfolded as she became manager of the business office for over forty years. She was secretary for the hospital’s Board of Trustees from 1948-1981. Known and appreciated for her efficiency and dedication, she continued to serve as a hospital volunteer for over fifteen years beyond her retirement.

A devout Methodist, Dot was active in many church organizations and served as treasurer for years. She was known for the delicious pecan pies she’d bake for church events.

In her younger years she enjoyed traveling with friends or family, visiting sites in the Eastern United States and Europe. More recently it was a weekly delight for Dot to go for rides with her family throughout the hills of New Hampshire; trips made doubly rewarding for her whenever the sky was blue.

Dot was honored at the celebration of her 104th birthday by a visit from Keene’s Mayor, Kendall Lane. He read a declaration stating that December 21, 2012 was Dorothy Kirk Day. A wonderful gift.

However, Dot never needed nor sought the limelight. Her greatest joys were simple ones. Dot’s sweetness will be missed by many. She leaves her niece, Kathie Robinson and husband, Rick Robinson; great-niece, Devon Smith and husband Aaron Smith; great-great-nieces, Allison and Amelia; great-nephew, Joshua Powers and wife, Agnes Powers; great-great-nephews, Nolan and Louis; and numerous cousins. She was predeceased by her brother, Charles L. Kirk.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, May 29th at 1:30 PM in the Foley Funeral Home, 49 Court Street, Keene. Rev. Lena Mark, Pastor of the Grace United Methodist Church in Keene, will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Miss Kirk’s memory to Patient Care Needs of Hospice, Home Healthcare Hospice and Community Services, PO Box 564, Keene, NH 03431-0564, or to the Grace United Methodist Church, 17 Greenbriar Road, Keene, NH 03431.