Joseph John Dirks Jr.

Joseph John Dirks, Jr of Mead, Colorado passed away at his home on January 9, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. Joseph was born August 11, 1960 in Kansas City, Missouri to Joseph and Rose Ann (Miller) Dirks. He was a veteran who served in the United States Air Force from 1982 – 1988. During that time, he received the Air Force Commendation medal and the Air Force Achievement medal along with several other ribbons and awards.

Joseph was married to Lawana Kay (Wilkins) Dirks for 42 years and together they had 2 children. They met in Missouri while attending the University of Missouri. He received a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from Missouri and went on to obtain a Masters of Business Administration from the University of West Florida.

He had a long career in Space and Defense for numerous Aerospace companies. The most recent for Reinhold Industries in Santa Fe Springs, California. He was a member of Cairn Christian Church, Disciples of Christ in Lafayette, Colorado and the American Legion. Although he enjoyed and took pride in his career, his true love was spending time with his family and friends. He was always involved in any of his children’s activities and interests.

Joseph is survived by his wife Lawana; son David Joseph (Kara) Dirks of La Mesa, California; daughter Emma Florence Dirks of Portland, Oregon; grandson Jonathan David Dirks; and sister P. Ann (Don) Dirks-Linhorst of Glen Carbon, Illinois.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Joseph was a beloved husband, father and Papa who touched many lives and will be missed by all who knew and loved him.