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Maurice O. “Cork” Kirkpatrick, Jr., age 87 of LaGrange, passed away Friday evening, December 12, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born on September 5, 1938 in Sturgis, son of the late Maurice O. and Juanita (Keplinger) Kirkpatrick.
Cork resided in Sturgis until 1982, when he moved to his home in Howe, Indiana, where he lived until 2023 before relocating to LaGrange. On March 19, 1976, he married the love of his life, Cheryl McDonald, at Zion Lutheran Church in LaGrange.
Cork retired from Americraft Corporation in Sturgis following 32 years of dedicated employment as a sales representative. He also proudly served the City of Sturgis as a police officer. He was a faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church in LaGrange.
Cork was a member of B.P.O. Elks Lodge #1381 and a longtime member of the Lazy Boys Bass Masters in Sturgis. He had a true passion for tournament bass fishing and continued competing in area tournaments until the age of 82. Remarkably in his final year of competition, he won every event he entered. He also enjoyed snowmobiling, camping, fishing, and spending time outdoors.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 49 years, Cheryl Kirkpatrick; sons, Michael (Nikki) Kirkpatrick of Martin, Tennessee, and Brent (Julie) Wirick of LaGrange; and his grandson, Zachary Kirkpatrick of Martin, Tennessee.
In honoring his wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends from 11:00 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Mt. Zion Lutheran Church, 797 N. Detroit Street, LaGrange, Indiana, where a memorial service celebrating the life of Maurice “Cork” Kirkpatrick will immediately follow the visitation at 11:30. The Rev. Dana Stonebraker will officiate. A continued time of fellowship and the sharing of a meal will follow the service in the church fellowship hall.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.
Memorial donations would be appreciated to Mt. Zion Lutheran Church, 797 N. Detroit Street, LaGrange, IN 46761, or to the Dementia Society of America, P.O. Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901.
Relatives and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com
