Kevin Gene Kirchner

Kevin Kirchner, age 61, passed away on January 3, 2024, after a battle with injuries initially sustained in a UTV accident on May 10, 2023.  He was surrounded by members of his family in his last moments. 

Kevin is survived by his wife, Kelly Kirchner, his mother, Billie Joyce Kirchner, daughter Kaytlin (Nick) Smith and grandchildren Nixon and Etta, son Kayne (Rachel) Kirchner, two siblings, Kathryn Smith and Kris (Tami) Kirchner, and Ryan (Alara & Kennie Sue) Shikles, who he considered his kin.  He was preceded in death by his father, Darrell Kirchner.  

Kevin was born on November 26, 1962, in Jefferson City, Missouri.  As a child, Kevin was playful and mischievous, adventuring from Missouri all the way to California, whether he was allowed to or not. This zest for life and adventure continued into adulthood.  In his younger years, he liked to team pen in rodeos and proudly wear his trophy belt buckles and white cowboy hat.  He enjoyed fishing in any type of water, from family ponds in Missouri to deep sea fishing in the Atlantic.  He was there for the first catches of his children and grandchildren and truly enjoyed being present for these types of simple life pleasures.  Kevin would gladly hang out in his shop with his friends and family any day of the week at any hour.  Cold Miller Lites and a plethora of rolling chairs to seat all of his friends and family crowded the garage at all times, though there were never enough to seat all those he chose to spend time with. Kevin was always up for an adventure and rarely said no to an experience that would make anyone around him smile or laugh.  This was exemplified through experiences with his wife and children and most recently, his grandchildren, who adored him and his large, white mustache.  Out of all the roles he played, Papa was probably his favorite and the one at which he excelled most.  He loved to watch them ride their PowerWheels, take them on rides in his farm equipment, and be the “yes” answer to all their requests at Papa’s house.  When his loved ones were asked to describe him, every single one used the words generous, adventurous, lover-of-life, and kind.  His shop, fridge, and ears were always open.  He will be forever remembered and loved for all of his best qualities. 

A celebration of life will be held on March 23, 2024, at 4:30 in the afternoon at Kevin's shop in Russellville. 

In lieu of flowers, please go out of your way to spend extra time with a parent, child, or grandchild, say “yes” to an adventure, and buy a cold one for a stranger at a bar with a cheers to Kevin.  We will keep recording Gunsmoke for you, dad. 

Trimble Funeral Homes-Russellville is assisting the family with arrangements.  trimblefunerals.com