John Richard Kirchner "Dick" "Kahuna" "Opa"

John Richard Kirchner fell asleep in the Lord on Saturday, January 23, 2016 at his home in Maitland, Florida. He was born in Oklahoma City on October 23, 1924 to John Jacob and Edith Brumme Kirchner. He attended Classen High School before going on to complete his undergraduate and graduate studies in Speech and Communications from the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma City University. He proudly served in the US Navy during World War II. Upon return from active duty in the South Pacific, Mr. Kirchner relocated to New York City where he began a long and well-accomplished career in television broadcasting with CBS and ABC. On January 30, 1960 he married his wife of 50 years, Barbara Mitchell Kirchner. They had two children, Katherine and John both of whom currently reside in the Orlando area. For nearly two decades, Mr. Kirchner worked as a producer for ABC’s acclaimed Wide World Of Sports. He produced hundred of episodes and received numerous accolades for his work including an Emmy Award for outstanding achievement in television production for his work in producing the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. Mr. Kirchner and his family retired to Winter Park in 1976 to be closer to his wife’s family, Colonel & Mrs. Lawrence C. Mitchell. As an early retiree, he became actively involved in his community. He generously gave of his time and talents to local non-profit organizations, schools, and political campaigns. He served on the board of both the Morse Museum Of Art as well as The Center For Independent Living. His true love of people and giving spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his son, John C. Kirchner; his daughter, Katherine Kirchner Palceski and husband Dimitry M. Palceski and; two granddaughters, Ella and Ava Palceski. Services will be held on Sunday, January 31, 2016 at 2:00pm in the sanctuary of The First Congregational Church of Winter Park located at 225 S. Interlachen Avenue. Interment to follow at Palm Cemetery in Winter Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation Of America.