John Arthur Kivlehan's Obituary
John was born in Waltham, Massachusetts. He was raised by hardworking parents in Newtonville, Massachusetts. John was the oldest of 6 children. John was the only one of his siblings to move out of Massachusetts. He got into sales after college and his career took him to St. Louis where he and his wife, Carole had their first child, Thomas. They then moved to Denver and had their second of two Children Kris. In the late seventies a job transfer took the family to Richardson, Texas where the roots were established. John was deeply involved in his career and his family. However, he was also into Ice Hockey and Golf. John coached his sons and others Junior Hockey Club and was one of the founders of the original Dallas Junior Hockey Association. John also joined Canyon Creek Country Club after the move to Richardson and this is where he established most of his livelong friendships with other members and neighbors on Crestover Circle. He still loved to get back to Massachusetts to visit family and friends when possible.
John was passionate about Sales and in the 80’s started his own Sales Agency. The agency became very successful due to his hard work. He was also very passionate about Golf and The Dallas Stars. He was an original Dallas Stars season ticket holder and continued going to games until 2016. He was also very passionate about golf and spent most Saturdays with his group playing golf and cards at Canyon Creek Country Club.
In the later 90’s Johns roots to Massachusetts and memories of summers spent on Cape Cod caused him to purchase a condo on the Ocean in Mashpee, Massachusetts. He loved his time spent at The Cape. He would make four or five trips a year and would spend a month during the summer at his place on Cape Cod. In 96, Johns Daughter in Law, Shannon came into his life. In 2007, his granddaughter Grace came into his life. He loved his Daughter in Law and his Granddaughter. He was such a proud and great Grandfather!
John spent his final years enjoying time spent with his family and spending as much time as possible on Cape Cod. Also, spending time at Canyon Creek with friends.
John is survived by his daughter Kris, son Tom, daughter in law Shannon, grand daughter Grace, sister Mary Beth, brother in law Brian, sister Joan along with nieces and nephews and other relatives in Massachusetts.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?