Robert E. Kirkpatrick, 64, passed away in Richmond, Texas on July 24, 2019. Robert was born in Harlingen, Texas to Robert and Joyce Kirkpatrick on September 26, 1954.

Robert truly had an extraordinary life. Growing up in the South Padre Island with his dad and siblings, the fisherman lifestyle was the normal way of life.His dad, being a pastor for over 17 years spreading the gospel in the nursing homes and in the prison system, became a major influence in the routine of his children’s lives. Robert, growing up, had aspirations of becoming an aviation pilot. Although not being able to complete his training, he always had his family’s support.

He was taught to be compassionate and have respect for others, treating them the way he would want them to treat him. Robert had a love for his mother, Joyce, which goes beyond words. He and his siblings loved each other’s company to where they could all sit in a room silently and never feel that awkwardness of a soundless room full of people. Jerry, Robert’s brother, was his best friend. They were so close and similar in all they did; other members of the family would say they were like unattached Siamese twins. The irony in all is that on Robert’s 10th birthday, his birthday present was a baby brother, Billy, who was born deaf and with prayer, his hearing was restored. This had a large impact on Robert later in his life.

Robert had numerous hobbies. He loved to play golf. He and his dad and siblings made a day of golf memorable on his birthday when Robert made a hole-in-one. The event was published in the paper and nobody ever heard the end of that occasion. Robert loved to watch sports and old movies – especially westerns. Music, above all - blues, could always be heard from any radio he had on. And if you ask him about food—Mexican food is a must – especially Tamales which is surely never to be forgotten at his job, Hudson Products, where he worked as a machinist for 30 years, and was always buying up to a dozen tamales from anyone who was selling them.

Robert was particularly special to his daughters, Stacey and Katie, who till this day remembers the long road trips they shared that always included Beef Jerky. He was always there to support his children in all of their after school extracurricular activities. He attended all the T-ball and softball games. He treasured the moments he attended the dance recitals and looked forward for the next event his children aspired to set. With his excellent sense of humor, he is also known to be the “king of dad jokes”. These are the jokes he would tell that became funny minutes (or hours) later.

Robert attended a Christian Community Service Center where he met his soul mate, Janet. They fell in love, married shortly after, committed their lives to the Lord and never looked back. Robert and Janet cherished their “date nights” by spending time bowling and playing tennis. Win or lose in the game, they both enjoyed simply being together in each other’s company. A love story that lasted 31 years and although Robert continues to watch over his family, there will come a time when all will be together again, united in the presence of God. He continued to volunteer his services in the Christian Ministries for 15 years where he would be able to help serve others and change lives. Although he didn’t warm up to change very well, he was loyal and honest, he cared for others and most importantly, loved his family.

Proceeded in death by father, Robert H. Kirkpatrick.

Survived by spouse, Janet Kirkpatrick; mother, Joyce Kirkpatrick; brothers, Jerry Kirkpatrick, Bill Kirkpatrick; sister, Debra Grimes; daughters, Katie Kirkpatrick, Stacey Kirkpatrick; grandchildren, Kylie Carter, Tyler Carter; Nieces and nephews, Brittany Nelson, Michael Grimes, Austin Kirkpatrick, and Lexi Kirkpatrick.