David R. Kirkes

David R. Kirkes, a Zimmerman resident, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Saturday, December 19th, 2020.

David was born in Grand Rapids, Minnesota to Richard and Elsie Kirkes of Bovey.  He was a graduate of Greenway High School in Coleraine, MN and the Hibbing Area Technical College.  Dave served in the United States Airforce as an Aircraft Maintenance Specialist.  Upon returning home, he worked for US Steel as a Locomotive Mechanic.   In 1980 David married Marcia Mansfield and they celebrated 40 years together on June 28th.   In the mid 80s David relocated his young family to the Big Lake/ Elk River area when he began his 32 year career at the Honeywell Solid State Electronics Center in Plymouth, Minnesota as an Equipment Specialist. 

David enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, hunting, and was an avid golfer.  He loved to read and spend time with family and friends.  He was also an early adopter of Geo-caching, which gave him opportunities to share his love of nature with his family.

David was a loving husband, caring father, and doting grandfather.  He was a good and kind hearted man who sought to help others whenever he could.  He will be greatly missed.

David is survived by wife, Marcia, three children, David A. Kirkes of St. Cloud, MN,  DeAnna Foss (Alan) of Becker, MN, Alexandra Hamilton (Michael) of St. Cloud, MN, granddaughter, Sadie Rae, family dog, Meelo, sister Merrie Ann Hesselroth (Lee) of Braham, MN, brother Bryan Kirkes(Lorie) of Alexandria, VA,  brother in law, Robert Lange of St. Cloud, MN, aunt Ellen Solomon of Hermantown, MN and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by parents, Richard and Elsie Kirkes, and sister Marcia Kirkes Lange.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, January 16th, 2021 at 1:00 PM at River of Life Church, 21695 Elk Lake Road, Elk River, MN 55330, with visitation starting at Noon.

Memorials in Dave’s name may be directed to Haiti Health Ministries, PO Box 175, Girard, KS  66743.

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