John Paul Kirwan

It is with both sadness and gratitude that we celebrate the life of John Paul Kirwan, who peacefully departed from this world on May 25, 2025, in Melbourne, Florida. Born in New York City on April 6, 1935, John (known as Paul to his family) grew up in Astoria, NY with his sister, Pat Kirwan Almond. He married his wife, Mary McMahon Kirwan, in 1958, and raised his family on Long Island, NY. They moved to Melbourne Beach, FL in 1991, where John was blessed to be able to retire by the young age of 60! John was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who cared deeply about his family.  

John shared a remarkable 67 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Mary.  He was the proud father of four daughters: Barbara (Grant) Ward, Sue (Ed) Eaton, Nancy (Mike) England, and Kathy (Brett) King. As a “girl dad,” he made sure each of his daughters was well trained in every aspect necessary for success, exemplifying hard work and attention to detail in all that he did. He was famous in his family for his “yard parties” and “boat parties,” ensuring a good time was had by all! 

Although not a man to wear his heart on his sleeve, John enjoyed spending time as a grandfather to his ten grandchildren: Grady and Gavin Ward, Andrew Eaton, Kelly Eaton Nickens, John Eaton, Allison, Catherine and Erin England, and Kenna and Aaron King. In his later years, he delighted in seeing the arrival of his great-grandchildren, Etta, Lily, and Harlowe. His family was very important to him, and he truly appreciated time with his extended family whenever possible. 

John graduated from Stuyvesant High School before earning his undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering from Brooklyn Polytechnic Institute and a master's degree from Adelphi University. From 1961 to 1995, he dedicated his career to Grumman Aircraft Systems (now Northrop Grumman), contributing to significant aerospace projects such as the F-14 fighter jet and the Apollo Lunar Module. His work in engineering was a testament to his intellect, creativity, and commitment to excellence. 

Beyond his professional life, John had many interests. Until the last few years of his life, he always owned a boat, either motor or sail, and loved being on and near the water. His family will always remember the often-used name of Basunaka for his watercraft! John loved the outdoors.  In addition to boats, he always owned a trailer. From pop-up to upright trailer to RV, there was always a camper in the driveway! Family camping trips created cherished memories, and he and Mary had a passion for exploring the country together in their RV during retirement, visiting all the National Parks and making many life-long friends along the way. He also loved to tinker in his workshop and was resourceful in repairing and doing projects around the home, boat, and camper. He inherited a love of coin-collecting from his own father and attempted to pass down this rewarding hobby to his children and grandchildren – with varying degrees of success! In his last days, he still delighted in reviewing his collection and sharing his interest with others. 

John had an engineer’s brain for numbers and attention to detail, and he used that not only for his own benefit in closely monitoring his family’s investments, but for his community, as well. He served for years on his neighborhood’s water board and volunteered his time and expertise for many years providing annual tax help for those in need.

John was a large personality, who loved to get things done. He was a good neighbor and a good friend who could always be relied upon. His kindness, loyalty, and honesty left an indelible mark on everyone he met. He will be missed. 

As we remember John Paul Kirwan, let us honor a man whose heritage of family, dedication, and adventure will live on in those who knew him, especially his family. In this time of sorrow, we celebrate his life and remember that his journey has not ended—his legacy will live on in each of us. 

Funeral mass will be held on Saturday, July 12 at 11:00 AM at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Melbourne Beach.