Ernie K. Kirkland

Ernie K. Kirkland, age 79, of Lee’s Summit, MO, passed away Wednesday, March 8, 2023, at home with his family. A small Celebration of Life will be held at the Kirkland home, 1010 SE 3rd Terr., Lee’s Summit, MO from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 1, 2023.

Ernie was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. He was generous of heart with his family and will be dearly missed by his loved ones. He spent his working years as a master craftsman, tool and die maker, machinist and fabricator with very few people remaining in the trade today. He completed his apprenticeship and journeymanship over five years at Justrite Machine Works, quickly rising to foreman and continuing his craft at Kenworth, Fixtures Furniture and Billy Goat Industries for the remainder of his career. Ernie took great pride and enjoyment in his craft. As he built specialized tools for the factory and its workers, Ernie used his off hours fabricating gifts for his wife, family and friends. He had a passion for custom cars, motorcycles and anything racing related from an early age.

Ernie was born in Kansas City, MO to Thaddeus and Marguerite (Smith) Kirkland on October 14, 1943. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother George Kirkland, and very recently by his daughter, Amy Lickteig.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Pamela (Martin) Kirkland; sons, Robert Kirkland, David Kirkland; daughter-in-law, Jillene Blazer; and four grandchildren whom he took great pride and joy in, Dylan Kirkland, Garrett Edwards, Maximilian and Grace Lickteig.

Ernie was a devout dog lover. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Wayside Waifs in his memory at: Donate – Wayside Waifs. The family wishes to thank Dr. Todd Fristo along with Michelle Large, Sheridan Davenport, Chaplain Brent Cantrell, Tisha Vigliaturo and Karla Russell at Phoenix Hospice for all of their care and support.