Frederick fred Owen Kirms

On June 14, 2016, Fredrick Owen Kirms, age 87, passed away peacefully at Missouri Baptist Hospital. Fred was the devoted husband of Marilyn Jane Kirms (nee, McDonnell) for 62 years, who preceded him in death on September 16, 2013. Fred was the loving father of three children and their spouses: Karen and Sandy Palmer; Mark and Lynn Kirms; and Holly and David Labiak. He had five grandchildren whom he loved deeply: Sarah and Dan Wiszkon; Mallory Kirms; and Peyton and Reagan Labiak. His family circle was completed by his great granddaughter Hannah Wiszkon. Fred is survived by his sister-in-law Jean Schmidt and five nieces and nephews and their spouses. Fred was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Elsie Kirms; his brother and sister-in-law Joseph and Joan Kirms; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Doris and Eugene Cook; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Mary and Paul McDonnell, his brother-in-law John Schmidt; and his niece Shirley Cook.

Fred had a unique and varied career path, but, first and foremost, was his devotion and service to his Lord Jesus Christ. Fred graduated from the U S Naval Academy and rose to the rank of Commander. He received an MBA and taught future business professionals at colleges in New York, Indiana and Georgia. Fred also received a divinity degree from the Reformed Episcopal Seminary, Philadelphia, after which he pastored at several churches over his ministerial career.

Aside from his career, Fred was an avid walker, reader, card and crossword puzzle player, loved dogs, enjoyed a good home cooked meal and dinner out, visiting his kids, going to the beach and flying kites, watching westerns and college football, root beer, licorice and cashews.

Fred’s family are especially grateful to the caregivers at Schuetz Manor, part of the Dolan Memory Care family, who made sure that his days were spent happy and with dignity.

Fred will be interred with his wife, Marilyn, in the Columbarium at First Presbyterian Church in High Point, North Carolina.