Charles Kirk, 78

Charles Owen Kirk, age 78, of Three Rivers, passed away Saturday, January 17, 2026,

He was born on November 3, 1947 in Vandalia, the son of Donald N. and Katherine M. (Woodhams) Kirk. Chuck grew up in Vandalia, where he spent his early years surrounded by family and friends and developed the strong values that guided him throughout his life. He later graduated from Vandalia High School.

Chuck worked for many years at American Axle & Manufacturing and later continued his career with General Motors in Fort Wayne. Throughout his working life, he was known for his reliability, strong work ethic, and pride in providing for his family. In addition to his professional career, he also proudly served as an auxiliary officer with the Three Rivers Police Department, a role he valued for the opportunity to serve and support his community.

On June 28, 1997, Chuck married Debra Clark. Deb and Chuck loved spending time together golfing and shared some of their happiest years living at Canterbury Green in Fort Wayne, where they built lasting friendships and created many cherished memories. Debra preceded him in death on March 31, 2020.

Chuck especially loved living on the lake, where he found joy and peace. He enjoyed boating, fishing, and taking leisurely golf-cart rides, often spending quiet moments simply sitting by the water. Friends and neighbors will fondly remember him waving to boaters as they passed by, a small gesture that reflected his friendly, easygoing nature.

Chuck treasured time with his grandchildren and remained closely connected to his family. He was a faithful supporter of Moorepark Community Church, where he found comfort and fellowship. He will be remembered as a kind, steady, and dependable man whose presence brought quiet reassurance to those around him.

He is survived by his son, Jon Kirk; step-daughters, Nichole (Bill) Cover and Mandi Kirk; grandchildren, Olivia, Connor, and Kendall Penny; Jonathon Kirk, Ashley McCann, Justin Kirk, and Miley Kirk; siblings, Steve (Christy) Kirk and Vicki (Thomas) Derderian; brother-in-law, Michael “Mickey” Clark; special niece, Laura Masters; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Debra Kirk; his son, David Kirk; baby sister, Sharon; brothers, Donald “Tom” Kirk, William Kirk, Randy Kirk, and T.J. Kirk; and sister-in-law, Patricia Forman.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Moorepark Community Church, 55701 Wilbur Rd., Three Rivers, with Pastor Mark Pyenta officiating. There will be a lunch at 12:15, and celebration of life to follow.

Donations in Chuck’s memory may be directed to Moorepark Community Church of Three Rivers. Envelopes will be available at the church and at Hohner Funeral Home.