William D. Kirkpatrick, 80, died Monday, June 8, 2009 at the Bob Dole VA Hospital in Wichita. Celebration of his life will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Trinity Episcopal Church in El Dorado. Burial will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Parker Cemetery in Arkansas City. Cremation has preceded the service.
William was born Dec. 9, 1928 in Arkansas City, the son of Daryl and Mary (Conely) Kirkpatrick. He grew up in Arkansas City and graduated from school there. He received a bachelor of science degree in accounting from Wichita State University.
He served his country during the Korean War in the Marine Corps, receiving a Purple Heart. William was united in marriage to Betty Crabtree on Sept. 26, 1948 in Arkansas City. He was a CPA for Grant Thornton for 40 years. Bill received the highest distinction from the Rotary Club as he was named Paul Harris Fellow in 2008.
Bill was a member of the Trinity Episcopal Church. He also belonged to the Rotary Club, VFW, American Legion and the Grizzly Club. He loved to read, woodworking, railroads and attend athletic events.
Survivors include: his wife, Betty of the home; two children, Leslie Jill Kirkpatrick of Denver, Colo., and Nancy Gaye Samp of El Dorado; sister, Elaine and husband Dean Gilstrap of Arkansas City; sister-in-law, Marge Rine of Wichita; nephews, Wes, Brad and Dr. Grant Rine, all of Wichita, and Richard Gilstrap of Maize; and niece, Linda and husband Kenny Dawes of Cushing, Okla.
Memorials have been established with Trinity Episcopal Church, Rotary International and the Butler Community College- sports program. Contributions may be left at Kirby-Morris Funeral Home. To share a memory go to www.kirbymorrisfuneral home.com.
