McCallum, Kirk Donald

Kirk Donald McCallum - age: 61
(October 31, 1960 to December 20, 2021 )
Resident of Talmage, California

Obituary:
Kirk entered into rest on December 20th 2021, in his own version of “kickin’ ass and takin’ names” of which we more commonly comprehend as super-human strength accompanied by stubbornness, with space that his family so obliged. True to his family roots, Kirk passed away in Talmage, California after a miserable, yet much too rapid, battle with Congestive Heart Failure.

Born on October 31st 1960 in Ukiah, California, a Halloween Baby, the 2nd child to Don and Carol; Kirk always lived with a great sense of family pride, especially as the oldest boy among ten children.

A bouncing baby, an energetic young man, it is easy to relive the joy that encompassed Kirk’s childhood. From siblings to cousins and dear friends, there was never a shortage of adventure where Kirk was always certain to bring his quick wit, contagious laughter, and adaptive nature to every occasion. A true leader of naturally athletic stature, it is of no surprise that Kirk was active in Boy Scouts, Baseball, Football, Track and Field, Hunting, Fishing, and the LDS Church. In all things proving to be daring, outstandingly strong, incredibly fast, and a captivating motivational speaker. A 1978 Ukiah High School Graduate, Kirk’s knowledge, both in smarts and smart-aleck, literally from kindergarten through to high school graduation, were classically regarded with respect for this charismatic individual that was so well known, loved and liked by his peers, staff, and elders.

From the 80s to the early 90s, Kirk and Vicki managed to marry twice, bring three children into the world, buy their remote mountain home, and start a construction business. A fan of the great outdoors, the ridiculously long dirt road to home was simply an added benefit to a semi-off the grid kind of life. An adoring Father, equipped with patience and kindness, his love never wavered, regardless of circumstance or distance. An absolute legend in the construction world, a top-notch heavy equipment operator, Kirk will forever be remembered as the man that could do anything he set his mind to, add to that, he made it look easy.

All the while, it is no secret, Kirk was still making local headlines, there is pretty much a story to tell for each instance, where truth, awe, and even a giggle or two are a given. This life, what could definitely be referred to as the hard road is so powerfully summed up in this quote (author unknown), “Someone once asked me, "why do you always insist on taking the hard road?" I replied, "why do you assume I see two roads?" Yet another area of truth, this is not something that exuded honor but it certainly was not anything to lie about or hide from.

Circumnavigating life as lyrical know it, a self-taught poet, a doodler with prestigious intent, a musician without limits, an intellect of a mastermind, Kirk’s innovations were second to none. Creating how-to videos with superb narration, Kirk has left a trail teaching us how to operate the International dump bed, mill wood, build a potato gun, play the guitar and so much more. It is in his voice that we will forever hear his enthusiasm for learning, teaching, and leaving his unconventional mark on this world. It is in his creations that we will visibly see, physically touch, and forever share how extremely talented Kirk will permanently be.

Of late, Kirk spent most of his time outdoors at his Dad and Linda’s place with his young pup, Tinker, often in the company of his two best friends, his younger sister Wendy, and his son Irvin. Teaching his Grandkids a thing or two at his shop, Wendy Wednesday, spending time with his Mom, regular phone calls to his Daughters, all with an insistence that nobody worry too much about him. Getting in just the right amount of quality family time, appeasing us all before his much too soon transition from our world.

With a hope to meet God, awaiting Kirk’s arrival at Heaven’s gate, no doubt, is his youngest son, Keith Donald with two of his siblings Casey Irvin and Holly Ann. Let’s not forget, his beloved Backhoe Joe, a.k.a. Hoe Joe, the stray mutt probably had the backhoe on the ready.

Kirk is survived by his parents, Donald H. McCallum (Linda) and Carol A. Larson; children Danielle (Tim), Irvin (Dani), and Lynn (Mat); grandchildren Amelia, Téa, Emmett, Dalila, Laci, and Logan; siblings Leanne (Mark), Wendy (John), Heidi (Lloyd), Matt (Kristen), Heather, Rachel (Josh), and Chad; as well as numerous Nephews, Nieces, Great-Nephews, and Great-Nieces.

Quite simply, hearts on Earth are shattered while the Heavens above have gained a one of a kind soul, the kind of soul that will forever be with us, the kind of soul that lives on in those that loved this man more than words could ever convey.

In Kirk’s memory, you are welcome to share stories, pictures, any and all things to linearevents@gmail.com the family would be honored to hear from you. In addition, we encourage you to take a trip down memory lane with this slideshow: https://youtu.be/Wezo-rvZce0

Please Note: “Don't Think Twice, It's All Right” by Bob Dylan (copyright block) Minute 9:16 to 12:23 Will Be Silent (full version available by request to the email listed above)