Donald Francis Kirkham Jr.

Donald “Don” Francis Kirkham Jr., 74, of Palm City, Florida, passed away at home on Saturday, September 13, after a courageous four-year battle with Lewy Body Dementia.

Born on December 2, 1950, in Queens, New York, Don was the beloved son of Ruth Marie Kirkham and Donald Francis Kirkham Sr. He grew up in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, where he attended Catholic school through high school. He went on to attend West Virginia University and ultimately earned his Bachelor of Business Administration.

Don built a distinguished career in the restaurant industry, serving as Vice President of Operations for the Cypress Group, which owned a variety of restaurant chains. He later established his own property management business in South Florida, managing condominiums on Palm Beach Island. Beyond his professional life, Don was deeply committed to his faith and community. At St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, he was an active member of the Knights of Columbus, where he proudly served as Grand Knight. He also devoted his time to Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Palm Beaches, mentoring and guiding underprivileged youth.

Don was predeceased by his parents, Donald Sr. and Ruth Kirkham. He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Diane Marie Kirkham; his children, Donald Francis Kirkham III (Monica) and Amy Kirkham Yedinak (Steve); and his five cherished grandchildren: Natasha Yedinak, Mallory Kirkham, McKenzie Kirkham, Juliana Yedinak, and Addison Yedinak.

Above all, Don will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family. Though he wore many hats in his lifetime, his favorite title was “PaPa.” His grandchildren were his heart and soul, and he took great pride in being the patriarch of his family. Don’s endless dedication, support, and love shaped the lives of those closest to him.

A lifelong sports fan, Don followed the New York Giants, New York Mets, and New York Rangers with passion. He also found joy in music, with Crosby, Stills & Nash, Jimmy Buffett, and Billy Joel among his favorites.

Services:

Wake / Viewing: Monday, September 22, 6:00p.m - 8:00 p.m.

Aycock Funeral Home, Young & Prill Chapel

6801 SE Federal Hwy

Stuart, FL 34997

Funeral Mass: Tuesday, September 23, 11:00a

St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church

10970 Jack Nicklaus Dr.

North Palm Beach, FL 33408

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s honor to the following charities:

-Hospice of the Treasure Coast

-Dementia Society of America