Kelly Dirks

January 18, 2020

Kelly Dirks

Service Details

Kelly Donald Dirks, 53, left his earthly body on Friday, January 17, 2020, after a long and courageous fight with ALS. He spent his last day surrounded by his family.

Kelly was born on December 18, 1966, to Donald and Alice Dirks in Sac City, Iowa. At a young age they moved to Vail, where he lived until graduating high school from Ar-We-Va in 1985. He continued his education at ILCC in Estherville, IA and at UNI. He graduated in 1989 with a BA in marketing. He worked for Follett Educational Services, retiring in 2015 after 25 years of service.

Kelly enjoyed playing poker, specifically Texas Hold ‘Em at Prairie Meadows (but any casino would do). His caregivers would even take him there in his wheelchair and hold his cards for him. It was well worth the smile on his face. He loved riding his Harley until he was no longer able to. His family will cherish wonderful memories of boating and taking great family vacations together.

Kelly didn’t know a stranger. He was shy, but extremely kind and personable to all. He had a hard time ever saying “no” as he felt very blessed and knew where he had come from. He loved his children dearly and spent a lot of time with them after he was no longer able to work, making up for many years on the road. This time was precious to him.

Those who survive Kelly are his loving wife, Jodi; children, Zack, Christian, and Kylee Dirks; siblings, Galen Dirks, Donna (Trent) Kahl, Kevin (Lonnie) Dirks, Paula Rafferty, Donald (Myla) Dirks, Amy Dirks, and Kate (Ryan) Neumann; mother-in-law, Sue (Greg) Kurtz; brother-in-law, Cole (Gina) Trimble; many nieces, nephews, and extended family members; and too many friends to count. Kelly was preceded in death by his parents.

The family wishes to thank Lisa Jacobs for her two years of selfless care for Kelly. They had a special relationship and Lisa became part of the family.

A celebration of life service will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, January 25, 2020, at Lutheran Church of the Cross, 1701 8th St SW, Altoona. Visitation will be held there on Friday from 4-7 pm with a time of sharing starting at 7 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Runnells Christian Church.

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