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KIRKWOOD, NORBERT "KIRK" passed away October 15, 2012, at the age of 74 in Albuquerque, NM. Kirk was born on May 25, 1938 in Austin, MN, the son of Clyde and Gladys (Hanson) Kirkwood. Kirk graduated from Austin HS in 1956 and he served in the Army from 1957-59. Upon discharge from the army Kirk utilized the GI bill to pursue a degree in English/ Spanish at Mankato State Collage. Kirk taught school for a number of years before discovering his true vocation, as a firefighter. Kirk served at the Poudre Valley Fire District and The Poudre Fire Authority in Fort Collins, CO. for over 22 years achieving the ranks of Captain and Company Officer before retiring in 1994. Kirk traveled extensively through most of his life visiting over two dozen countries including: China, Viet Nam, Greece, Hungary, Egypt, Thailand, much of Europe and most of Central and South America. Kirk was fluent in Spanish and learned sufficient portions of many other languages to enhance his travel experience and at the time of his death he was learning Korean in preparation for a trip to Korea. Kirk was also an avid runner/ bicyclist competed in numerous road races and events over the years including the Boston Marathon. Kirk also rode a bike 850 miles from Ft. Collins, CO to Austin, MN to attend a high school reunion, but as he was quick to admit, one way was enough and he flew home. Right up to the months preceding his death Kirk was a familiar fixture walking and running the streets and trails of NE Albuquerque spending hours putting in his miles. Kirk is survived by his son Randy Kirkwood of Orlando and daughter Vivian 'Liz' Perez of Ft. Collins; granddaughters Amanda Johnson and Misty Van Winkle; great-grandchildren Ryder, Leo and Mae; as well as his sister Aggie Hendrikson of Austin. Kirk also leaves and extended family of good friends in Albuquerque.
        Published on: Sun November 11, 2012