David Clyde Kirkpatrick
May 16, 1919-Sept. 4, 2020
David Kirkpatrick passed away at Baptist Health Center in Madisonville, Kentucky Sept. 4.
He was preceded by his wife of 64 years, Martha Louise Kirkpatrick, and their baby son John.
He is survived by his three children Charles David Kirkpatrick (Ludy), Kay Kirkpatrick Haltom (Tom), and Rex Amon Kirkpatrick, as well as nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
DC was born and raised on a family farm in Haleyville, Alabama during the Great Depression. He went to work for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) to help support his family. He met Louise at a CCC dance and they were married in 1940. He served as an Army warrant officer in Germany in WWII. Dave worked for the L & N Railroad for over 40 years, moving to various parts of Kentucky during his employment. He raised cattle and gardened as a sideline. After his retirement in Henderson, Kentucky, he started a contracting business with a friend and enjoyed making furniture and clocks. Dave and Louise were active in their community and their church. Family was always important to them and they made frequent trips to Alabama to visit their kinfolks.
Dave and Louise made education of their children a high priority. Dave did not have a chance to go to college but often took correspondence courses in subjects like electronics to improve his job skills as a signal superintendent. All three children graduated from college and went on to successful careers.
DC was known for his work ethic and could work circles around most people even at an advanced age. He never met a stranger and was almost always happy and optimistic, even as his Alzheimer’s disease progressed. He served as a great role model for several generations. His “can do” attitude was a good example of the mindset of the “Greatest Generation.”
Private graveside services for immediate family only will be held in Haleyville, Alabama Tuesday, Sept. 8.
Donations in honor of his memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.
