Robert Wayne Kirkpatrick

Robert Wayne Kirkpatrick died after suffering a brief illness.   He was born in Muskegon, Michigan and went to college at Michigan Technological University; eventually obtaining his Masters and was working on his doctorate.    Robert served 22 years in the US Air Force being honorably discharged as a Lt. Colonel.  He received the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, AF Commendation Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, AF Expeditionary Medal (Korea), AF Longevity Service Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal, AF Outstanding Unit Award with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters during his military career.

He was a retired Program Manager from National Data Corporation and Computer Sciences Corporation.  Robert loved hunting with his father as a young man and enlightened his family and friends with many stories from this period of his life.  As a younger man, Robert loved to play golf and watch it on TV; but, his favorite pastime was anything related to Michigan Football.  It didn’t matter whether it was college or pro ball, if it was a Michigan team, he was watching and cheering them on!    Robert had a 1988 Saleen Mustang that was his pride and joy for many years.  In fact, the neighbors have said they never needed to set an alarm, as they could wake up when Robert took that Mustang out each morning.    He and his wife have lived on a farmette called The Long Term Farm in Burtonsville, MD, for the last 32 years, which was a place of love, solitude and comfort.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years,  Linda “Penny” Mitchell Kirkpatrick, his children: Rachel of Burtonsville, MD, Wendy (Boutselis), Eric, and Robert, all of Virginia;  his siblings:  Kathleen, Laurel (Parrott) and Lee, all from Michigan; eight grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren; as well as a multitude of relative-in-laws, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Joanne (Crider), and his parents:  Wayne and Evelyn Kirkpatrick.

The family chose a private farewell but will hold a Celebration of Life on Saturday, January 16th at 2pm at the home of Robert, Linda, and Rachel in Burtonsville, MD.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lone Survivor Foundation which restores, empowers and renews hope for our wounded service members and their families through health, wellness and therapeutic support. http://lonesurvivorfoundation.org/