Prairie State Wire

Dennis W. Kirkman, 86, of Morocco, Indiana, formerly of Bradley, passed away on Sunday, December 1, 2024 at VNA Hospice Center in Valparaiso, IN. Born on May 21, 1938 in Bedford, IN, to Reverend L.L. and Ruth (Lowe) Kirkman, Dennis married Bette Hilt on February 14, 1994.

Dennis excelled in sports, attending Mt. Carmel High School and being a three-sport athlete. Inducted into the Mount Carmel and BBCHS Hall of Fame, he was known for his undying support for the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears, his love for fishing, traveling, and quality family time.

Serving as the Athletic Director at Bradley Bourbonnais Community High School for twenty-four years, Dennis also coached basketball and baseball in various locations, including Dale, IN, Potomac IL, and Oblong, IL. A veteran of both the United States Army and the United States Air Force, he played for the USAF Basketball team and achieved a basketball scholarship at McNeese State University. Dennis completed his Bachelor of Science at Oakland City College and his Master of Science at Indiana State University.

Surviving are his son Doug Kirkman of Vancouver, WA, stepson John Drake of Goodyear, AZ, daughter Beth Kirkman of Morocco, IN, sister Rhonda (Bud) Howard of Mount Vernon, sister-in-law Becky Kirkman of Evansville, IN, grandchildren Lindsey (Joe) Wilcox, Alison Price, Christina (Andrew) Magruder, Stepheny Santella, and great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by first wife Vonda Gehret, one brother, one sister, one nephew, one niece, one brother-in-law, one stepson, and one grandson.

Visitation and service will occur on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Clancy-Gernon Funeral Home in Bourbonnais, with cremation following. Donations to the Best Buddies Program at BBCHS in Bradley can be made in memory of Dennis W Kirkman through the Sympathy Store. Online condolences may be signed at www.clancygernon.com.

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