Arthur Jack Kirkham
"Jack"
Our beloved father, grandfather and great grandfather Arthur Jack Kirkham passed away on June 15th, 2008 peacefully at his home in Sandy, Utah.Jack was born on June 16, 1918 to Arthur Jesse and Nettra Theressa Peterson Kirkham in Lehi, Utah. He graduated from South High School in 1935. Jack married Elna Mae Jensen on March 3, 1942 and they moved to Long Beach, CA where Jack worked as a draftsman in the shipyards during World War II.
Jack and Elna moved back to Utah and made their home in Murray where they lived for many years. Jack purchased AAA Tent & Awning Co. (now known as Kirkham's Outdoor Products) in 1944. Jack established the business as a leading manufacturer of awnings and canvas products during the early years. Later in partnership with his brother Keith for a number of years. He invented, patented and developed the Springbar Tent, and made numerous design improvements and innovations over his career. Jack had a remarkable aptitude and enthusiasm for product design and working with the public. He retired from Kirkham's in the 1990's, with his son Jack Jr. taking the reins.
Jack was an outstanding painter, artist, writer and poet. Loved and gave his family a great appreciation for all types of music. He loved riding horses, fishing, and spending bonfire time at the ranch in Woodland, Utah. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and their accomplishments. Member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Jack is survived by his sister Ruth Nielson, Kathy (Scott) Lombardi, Carol Mathews Goulais, and Jack (Cheryl) Kirkham, Jr.: his grandchildren Theresa Smith, Tony Smith, Neal Smith, Matt (Natalie) Mathews, Jennifer (David) Sasich, Amanda Bilanzich, Allison Goulais, Kerrie (Matt) Turvey and Cammie Kirkham; and great grandchildren Caitlin Bilanzich, Zachary Sasich and Jack Dylan Turvey. Preceded in death by his wife Elna, his parents, brothers Keith S. and Berkley K. Kirkham.
Special thanks to Tammy Loertscher, a friend who provided tremendous support and assistance to Jack for the last 15 years.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 21st 11:00 a.m. at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Chapel 4760 So. State St. Friends may call from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday evening at Jenkins-Soffe and from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the funeral on Saturday. Interment will be held at the Murray City Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.jenkins-soffe.com