Bertha J Kirkwood

Bertha J. Kirkwood was born November 26, 1937 to Theodore and Dorothy McCauley. She grew up one of many brothers & sisters in Winterset, Iowa.

After graduation she moved to Des Moines with a group of high school friends. They all lived and worked “downtown”. This is where she met her future husband L. Don Kirkwood. They were married in 1964, going on to have three children.

She worked on and off for Northwestern Bell (now Lumen) for 30 years until her retirement in 1995.

Bert loved reading, gardening and being busy. But her greatest joy in life was being a mother, wife, sister and friend, which she did with love, grace and understanding.

Bert was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, sisters and brothers: Goldie Wilkinson, Doris Pickens, Beverly Miller, Bob McCauley, Larry McCauley, John McCauley, Teddy McCauley, Donald McCauley & Raymond McCauley.

She is survived by daughter Stephanie (Frank) Zuehlke; sons Tim Kirkwood and Andy Kirkwood; brothers Dick (Suzie) McCauley and Bud McCauley; sister Kay McCauley and sister-in-law Janice McCauley. Grandchildren Christopher Kirkwood and Nicole Waller and four great-grandchildren along with many cherished nieces and nephews and even more friends.

No formal services are planned per her wishes. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.