Clem Rye Kirk's Obituary
KIRK, CLEM RYE – Went home to be with his Lord on May 13, 2012 and was a long time member of the First Baptist Church of McKinney. He was born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi on November 25, 1920. He enlisted during WWII, and went to Officer Training School. He then went to LSU, graduating in 1947. He was recalled to active service during the Korean Conflict and served in France. He retired as a Lt. Colonel in the United States Air Force. In 1953, he began working for Ford Motor Company at its headquarters in Dearborn, MI. His specialty was Product Planning, and he participated in the development of the original Thunderbird and Mustang. His affable personality and complete dedication made him a valued and respected colleague. After retiring in 1971, he moved to Dallas, Texas, with his wife, Bobbye, who died in 1991. He later married his wife, Jean, to whom he was married for more than 20 years. He is survived by Jean, his son Ron Kirk of Lexington, Kentucky and daughter Sandra Kirk of Garland, Texas, five grandsons, three greatgrandsons, and two greatgranddaughters. Service will take place at 12:30 pm at Restland Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 with visitation one hour prior. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the missions of the First Baptist Church of McKinney or Town North Presbyterian Church.
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