James Patrick Kirchner, 61, passed away after a short illness on Sunday, April 12, 2020 in Davie, Florida. Prior to living in Florida, Jim was born and raised in Liverpool, New York. He graduated from Northwestern University where he met his wife and lived in the Chicagoland area for over 20 years, earning an MA and PhD in English Literature from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Jim is survived by his wife, Sharyle Doherty, mother Patricia Lane Kirchner of Liverpool, brother Robert and his wife Christine of Baldwinsville, sister Mary of Liverpool and several nephews: Conor Kirchner and wife JoBeth; Robert and Scott Kirchner; Thomas Doherty and wife Maria; and David Doherty. Jim is preceded in death by his father, James Arthur Kirchner.
Jim was a lover of books, music, film, and soccer. He was an excellent cook and bread baker. He followed the Chicago Cubs through the losing seasons and the good years (and inspired much of his family to do so). Jim was a lifelong musician, playing many instruments including the guitar and saxophone, and most recently becoming a ukulele virtuoso. He enjoyed jamming with his fellow ukulele players. Jim and Sharyle traveled the world, visiting interesting places on five continents.
A celebration of Jim's life is planned at a later date.
