Obituary of Leona Esther Kirk

Leona E. Hendrickson- Kirk Passed peacefully on May 21, 2017 at The Village of East Harbor where she was the first administrator and lived there, in Kirk Hall, for the past five years. She was born in Bailey, MI on January 29, 1922 the youngest of a farming family. After the death of her parents and oldest sister, at a very young age, she was raised by her extraordinary siblings and loving relatives and neighbors. Leona met the love of her life, Harry T. Kirk [deceased 2012] at Alma Collage. They were married on July 8, 1944 while Harry was in the Army and Leona was attending the Henry Ford School of Nursing. In her Senior year she was deferred by the military to remain at HFH to train upcoming nurses to meet the war demands. Leona and Harry began their family in 1946 and are survived by their children; Judy ( Larry) Myers, Algonac, MI, Shirley (Ted) Renaud, Reinholds, PA, Harry T. Kirk jr, TX and beyond, and Andy (Pam) Kirk, Savannah, GA. Youngest Son, William E. Kirk (deceased 1993). Six grand children, seven great grand children, one Great-great grandson and many wonderful nieces and nephews across the USA. When Bill started school, Leona went back to her nursing passion as Director of Nursing with the Presbyterian Village in Redford, MI. After completing her administrator's training she became the first administrator at Presbyterian Village East in Chesterfield, now known as The Village of East Harbor. Leona and Harry retired and moved from their Southfield home to their "cottage" in Alpena, MI where they lived for 15 years; played in the water and the snow, met new and wonderful friends, joined the Optimists, and attended the Alpena Methodist Church. Leona truly enjoyed her work with the Alpena Museum during that time. During the first few years of retirement Leona and Harry joined the world of RVing and traveled far and wide to visit their children, siblings, nieces, nephews and friends. In 2001 Leona and Harry decided that being closer to children was wise and we moved them to Algonac where they were active members of the Trinity Methodist Church and many family activities. In 2012 they moved into assisted living in The Village of East Harbor. Harry lost his battle in life in October and Leona took up where she left off; continuing to guide.and 'help run' VEH. MOSTLY, she was a light of smiles, heartfelt words, hugs and FLOWERS while she was there as a resident. Leona aka Nonie will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. "If you remember me, I will be with you always." If you wish to honor Mom we ask that donations be made to: Leona E. Kirk Memorial Fund %The Village of East Harbor 33875 Kiely Drive Chesterfield, MI 48047 in lieu of flowers Leona E. Kirk June 24th 2:00 in the afternoon The Village of East Harbor 33875 Kiely Drive Chesterfield, MI 48047 586-725-6030 There will be a luncheon immediately following in the Activities Room.