Kirk Michael Clerico

was his parents first born and the first born grandson on both sides of the family. His family’s

roots were deep in the Bakersfield community. His great grandfather Charley Oswald was a

deputy US Marshal in the early days of Bakersfield. Grandfather John Clerico was a first

generation immigrant from Italy and farmed for decades in Kern County. Grandfather Levi

Franklin was a locomotive engineer for the Southern Pacific Railroad, based in the East

Bakersfield office. Kirk loved law enforcement, farming and railroads, as this was his heritage.

He grew up in a time when neighborhoods were full of children playing outdoors all day, and

his neighborhood was no exception. Along with his sister and friends citrus orchards were

explored, a nightly baseball game was played and the nearby grandparent’s home was always

open. He learned to hunt, fish and knew the importance of hard work. He was honored in the

eighth grade by the Bakersfield City School District with the O.D. Williams award for academic

achievement, leadership and citizenship.

After high school he was drafted into the US Army where he served honorably for 2 years.

When discharged he returned home and began a career as a Bakersfield City Policeman

andthen, later, a California Highway Patrol officer. He was stationed in various cities around

California, including Santa Barbara and Blythe. One of his favorite cities was Placerville where

he lived for many years. He was also involved in several other businesses, including

automotive repair and was part owner of a restaurant. He eventually moved to Sacramento,

where he lived for the past 10 years.

Kirk had many passions. He was a generous friend, helping others in their time of need.

When you were Kirk’s friend he gave of himself unselfishly and without judgement. He loved

cars since childhood and at different times owned a Chevy Camaro, Chevy truck adorned with

KC fog lights, a Trans Am and an H3 Hummer. He was collector of everything Star Wars an

Harry Potter and had an eye for quality memorabilia. He liked nice things. He loved his

dachshunds and would be so pleased to know brother Brian has adopted Minnie.

Kirk is survived by sister Cindy (Sam), brother Brian (Tina), nieces Amanda and Stella, nephews

Casey and Cameron, many grandnieces and nephews and his dear friends Mark, Chris and

Clifford.

Services will be held at the National Cemetery in Arvin, CA, date to be determined.