Paul R. Kirk

"Paul R. Kirk, 87, of Palmer Green Estates, passed away on September 4, 2015 in Life Care Center of Wilbraham. He was born October 1, 1927 in Caruthersville, MO, son of Luther E. Kirk and Lennie (Harris) Simmons. Paul served in the US Navy during WWII aboard the USS Pinkney APH2. He received the Victory Medal, the American Area and the Asiatic Pacific Ribbon. He joined the AirForce during the Korean War stationed in Tripoli, Libya in the Air Police. He lived in Palmer for 27 years and enjoyed photography and bike riding. Paul retired from Crane Company (Chapman Valve) after working for 19 years. He will be deeply missed by 6 children, Alan Kirk of Indian Orchard, Douglas Kirk of Springfield, Tim Kirk and his wife Sheryl of Palmer, Cheryl Collins and her husband Michael of Springfield, Susanne Bettis and her husband Mark of Springfield and Laura Garete and her husband Joe of Ludlow. He is also survived by his sister, Dorothy Gray of Little Rock, AR, 9 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and many great great grandchildren. He will be missed by his ex-wife and friend Beverly Jean (Plourd) Kirk of Springfield and many nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 10th from 5:00-7:00 pm at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home. Burial will take place on Friday Sept. 11th at 9:00 a.m at the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main St., Agawam, MA. Please meet directly at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation. "