Kirk Bradshaw

Kirk was a good man who was kind, patient, and giving with children in the music program at First Federated Church. God bless you, Kirk.

Kirk, thank you for the good times on and off the stage you will be greatly missed in the Theatre community!

So sad to hear of Kirk's passing. A very talented musician and close friend of my mother, Virginia Leiby, and grandmother, Ann Gavin, I remember his playing ragtime piano at my mother's funeral. I'm sure that all are sharing their musical talents with the angels above.

Kirk Bradshaw was my right hand at Peoria Notre Dame High School for almost 15 years. He came to a rehearsal with a student of mine show he met rehearsing another show. He stayed for that rehearsal and came to every one after that day. He helped me audition. cast, rehearsal and build our shows. His legacy is visible everyday at PND. The students' lives he has touched are better for knowing him. The faculty who knew him loved him. The kids in the drama program and in the music program adored him. He was an important part of our community. Because he was sometimes a bigger kid than the kids, I had to play the adult and be stern and disapproving toward his antics. Many times I stormed out of the auditorium or removed my self after simply shaking my head -- mostly so I could cover the laughter that was on the verge of breaking out. My dear friend - you drove me crazy and I cherished every moment and every laugh. You were a friend to everyone you came in contact with. You shared your heart with our students and touch my family so deeply that we feel vey empty without you. We - I miss you so very much. My family, both immediate and at PND, are so much richer for having known and loved you. Rest in Peace.

Kirk, I thank you for sitting in with my band when I was at Notre Dame. The students really enjoyed having you and you were a bonus to my low brass section. I loved how I could take any part we were missing, write it for you and knew it would be played. At times it was hard to keep a straight face due to some surprise note or comment you would utter but that was what made our visits from you so entertaining. I will never forget the band lock-in you "chaperoned"; we were having so much fun the kids asked US to be quiet!?! So Kirk, I love you, I'll miss you but I know you are looking down and encouraging all of us to play the right notes.