Kenneth David Ireland
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Kenneth David Ireland, known by his friends and family as Dave and known to his grandkids as the historically un-killable man, left this Earth on Saturday April 1.
On June 8, 1945 Dave was born in Kansas City, Missouri at St. Luke’s Hospital. Dave attended and graduated from Raytown South High School in 1964. After graduation Dave went on to attend the General Motors Automotive Body School in Lenexa, Kansas.
From 1967 to 1969 Dave served in the US Army where he was stationed in South Korea. In 1970 he met the love of his life Pam on a blind date. On January 23, 1971 Dave and Pam were married in Overland Park, Kansas. From 1971 to 1978 they welcomed their three children, Ginger, Jack, and Kevin.
Over the course of his career he bought a multitude of cars to repair and restore, he enjoyed the process the most. In the late 1980’s he completely rebuilt a classic 1930’s USPS delivery truck complete with Uncle Sam on the side. Of his many restorations, including his most recent project in his garage to this day, over 40 were Ford Model A’s.
For many years Dave was an active member in the Ararat Shrine, he was the president of the Mini Indy Club and the Trikes Club respectively.
In retirement most people find more time to sleep but Dave on the other hand, enjoyed waking up before the sun every Saturday and Sunday morning to meet friends for breakfast at the Corner Cafe in Independence. In 2016 Dave and Pam took a cruise to Alaska although he preferred to stick close to his beloved home where he enjoyed sitting outside on the porch with his dogs and visiting with neighbors.
A survivor of not one, but TWO organ transplants, Dave spent the last 20 years jokingly warning his family his days were numbered. His departure, however great a warning they’d been given, comes as a great shock to those who loved him. The grumpy faced, yet not so grumpy really old man will be deeply missed.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Dorothy Ireland, his sister Yvonne “Bonnie” May, his son in law Chuck Hoffmann, and his many beloved dogs.
Dave is survived by his wife Pam, his three children Ginger, Jack (and Kristy), and Kevin Ireland, his grand children Brittney, Tim, Nicholas, and Andrew, many nieces and nephews, and his little dog Lady.
A celebration of Dave’s life will be held at his home in Kansas City, Missouri on Saturday April 15, 2023 from 2:00-4:00PM.
A good friend, a godly-man and no more pain, you’ve earn your rest…
So sorry for your loss although I never knew Dave I have known Pam for over 65 years from our days in Commack thinly about you and Your family at this time much Love Blanche
Pam my long time friend I am so sorry I never met Dave And I am sorry for that Sending prayers to you and your family
My dearest Dad overseas Since we first met in 1987 and up till now both you and Mom have ment so much to me. I am forever grateful to you for you being my host parents during my exchange year 1987/-88.
In 2012 I came back to visit you with my teenage boys. The boys and I will never forget the way you helped us through our grief after the loss of the boys Dad/my husband.
Dear Dad, you were always there for us in your own kind and caring way. Sometimes a bit tough on the outside, but always extremely warmhearted on the inside. That is how we knew you. We always looked forward to our monthly videocalls with you and Mom. Even though you had so many health issues on your own, you still showed so much interest in those around you. You were amazing. And we will never forget you
Dear Dad Thank you for always being there for us Thank you for a wonderful human being and such a great man. We will miss you terribly, but will always cheerish your life and honor your memory.
Our thoughts go to dear Mom, Ginger, Jack, Kevin and all your loved ones. Our hearts hurt for you all.
We will love you forever, dear Dad Love from Norway,
from Sigve, Håkon and Sigrid
Prayers for health, healing and comfort for friends and family.