Allan Kirkwood Lee

Born in Paterson, New Jersey, on December 14, 1933, Kirk lived a life defined by service, innovation, craftsmanship, and deep love for his family.

In December 1952, Kirk joined the United States Air Force and served honorably until December 1956, maintaining a squadron of aerial refueling tankers for the Strategic Air Command during a critical period of national defense. Following his military service, he graduated with honors from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Institute in June 1958.

Kirk went on to work in the forefront of American aerospace and defense innovation. He contributed to the development of the XLR99 engine for the X-15 rocket plane, worked on Bull Pup rocket engines used in Vietnam, and played a key role in building equipment for the Apollo space program—including life-support systems for the Lunar Excursion Module that helped bring the Apollo 13 astronauts safely home. He also built test equipment used in the manufacturing of nuclear submarine components.

A mechanical expert through and through, Kirk became highly skilled in automotives, electrical systems, and construction. He spent many years supporting an ARCA racing crew and was known for his endless curiosity, problem-solving ability, and hands-on generosity. His love language was building—he was most content when using his time and talents to help those he cared about.

He was a gifted storyteller, a teller of jokes both corny and clever, and a man who earned admiration for both his technical brilliance and his kindness.

Kirk is survived by his two daughters and their husbands, four grandchildren, a great-grandchild, a niece, a nephew, and cousins. He was deeply loved and will be missed beyond measure.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM EDT on Saturday, June 28, 2025, in the Mausoleum Chapel located at Limerick Garden of Memories Cemetery in Limerick, Pennsylvania. Arrangements are being handled by Linwood W. Ott Funeral Home of Boyertown, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in honor of Kirk’s military service and enduring commitment to his country.