Michael S. Kirk

Michael S. Kirk, age 49, of Portage, passed away Friday afternoon, September 12, 2014 at the Rose Arbor Hospice Facility in Kalamazoo. He was born in Kalamazoo on September 29, 1964, and was the loving son of Lawrence A. and Susanne M. (Hubbard) Kirk, and faithfully served his country as a member of the United States Army.

Michael is survived by his wife, Lori, whom he married in Richland on July 2, 2004; his children, Emily Kirk, Ashley VanTuyl and Ryan Kirk; his grandchildren, Valentina and Logan; his parents, Lawrence & Susanne; his step-children, Larissa Lawson, Bridgett Flanders, Jennifer Carlton and Tabitha Carlton; 5 step-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Connie Loveland, Nora (Terry) Topp, and a brother, Ralph (Hollie) Kirk. Michael enjoyed fishing, working on cars, "puttering" in his garage, and most of all, he loved spending time with his family.

The family will receive friends 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 18, 2014 at the Maple United Methodist Church, 342 Capital Ave NE, Battle Creek, where services to celebrate Michael's life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday. Michael was always trying to help others in any way possible, and so in lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider making donations to the Kalamazoo Alano Club 933 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo, MI 49001. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.