Ralph Kirk, 79

Ralph Kirk, 79, of Spirit Lake, passed away Dec. 29, 2010. He was born Jan. 21, 1931, to Roy and Cora (Ford) Kirk in Oklahoma.

One of nine children; brother's Roy and Leroy deceased, remaining are Paul, Richard, Pauline, Modina, Darlene and Billy Jean and their spouses which he adored. He loved all Alma's family.

Ralph met and married the love of his life Alma Ellis in 1950. They were in love for 60 years. They had three children, Brenda, Ralph Jr. "Jimmy" and Debbie.

Brenda gave them grandson's Billy and Chris. Jimmy gave them granddaughter's Jennifer and Monich. Debbie gave them grandson's Patrick and Shawn. He loved Billy and Chris's wives Joanna and Dawn like his own daughter's. He loved his son-in-law Bill and daughter-in-law Joelle as if they were his own. The grandchildren gave him 14 great-grandchildren all of which totally loved and adored him. He left behind numerous nieces and nephews that are really going to miss their Uncle Ralph. He also loved the entire Shaffer family, his in-laws.

Ralph was a carpenter and builder all his life. He loved hard work, traveling, family and children. When he couldn't work anymore he loved spending time with the love of his life Alma sitting on the porch watching the birds. Since Ralph was a carpenter, we feel Jesus wanted him to teach him how to build something new.

A memorial is being planned for early or late spring. English Funeral Chapel, Coeur d'Alene, has been entrusted with his final arrangements.