Beverley "B.J." John Kirkwood

We remember you Dad

As storyteller par excellence
Saturday morning cook
Valentine date at girl scout box dinner
Softball coach
As guide to starry constellations and fishing guide

We remember you Dad
In the garden
At swim meets
Working bee hives
Helping with homework

We remember you Dad
Camping under a tarp
Exploring mountain meadows and mountain roads
Enjoying grand babies and puppies

We remember you Dad
Giving out discipline
And hugs
Horse and goggling the last bit of gingerbread
And so very much more - thanks for the memories

February 22nd 2021 is the day that Beverley John Kirkwood, second son of Arthur Carter Kirkwood and Frances Tucker Kirkwood died. B.J. was born November 16, 1928, in Colorado. He grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, attended Southwest High School and graduated from MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with a Master's Degree in mechanical engineering. Best of all, in Boston he met Mary Ann Biesterfeldt, daughter of Walter and Mildred Morisseau Biesterfeldt; they married in her hometown of Kirkwood, Missouri, December of 1949. Working in Chicago, Illinois, at R R Donnelley publishing, they had their first three children. Later, Dad joined his Dad and brother in Kansas City, Missouri, at AC Kirkwood and Associates Engineering where he worked for nearly 30 years, becoming a much sought-after engineer. They added three more children, raising their family in Prairie Village, Kansas.

With most of the family out of the nest, Dad and Mother enjoyed traveling to Israel and Peru, then once retired, they left the Kansas heat and humidity and moved to their favorite spot- the Collegiate Peaks mountains of Colorado. Buena Vista became home and later they built a home in the Mesa Antero community, enjoying the neighbors, scenery, and outreach opportunities. Among other activities, they became involved in Prison Fellowship. Dad stayed active in the Mesa Antero community and church prayer meetings into his 80s, only slowing down when Mother became ill.

B.J. was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 60 years, Mary Ann, his baby sister, Ann Marie, his parents and just a few months ago, his brother Tom of Lenexa, KS.

He is fondly remembered by their 6 children and spouses, 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren as well as nieces and nephew. A loving father and welcoming father-in-law, we miss you but we're happy for you Dad that you're once again walking hand in hand with Mother. The family is grateful to the Salida HRRMC Covid-19 ICU medical team for their compassionate and skilled care. Donations in memory of BJ Kirkwood might be made to Prison Fellowship Ministries, to Chaffee County Community organization or your favorite organization.

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