Search by Name

Search by Name

JOHN DIRKS Obituary

DIRKS--John, of Mystic, CT, died on January 26, 2010. He was born on November 2, 1917, in New York, NY, the son of Rudolph and Helen Dirks. His wife of 50 years, Mary Dirks died on March, 30, 2004. Mr. Dirks graduated with the Yale Class of 1939 and was a Captain in the United States Army. Mr. Dirks collaborated with his father on The Captain and The Kids comic strip from 1955 until 1968, and he continued the strip until 1979. John was also a well known sculptor in mixed metal fountains. He installed hundreds of fountains all over the world, including museums, multiple gallery shows and private collections. He is survived by his sister Barbara Dirks of Brattleboro, VT. Memorial donations may be made to Rudolph & John Dirks Fund, PO Box 769, New London, CT 06320. Fulton-Theroux Funeral Home, Old Lyme is handling services which are private.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Feb. 4, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for JOHN DIRKS

Not sure what to say?





Walter +Veronika Kruse

February 21, 2010

John, the son of Rudolph Dirks, the creator of the Katzenjammer Kids, was very helpful by donating his father's and his oringinal material to the city of Heide (Schleswig-Holstein, Germany), where his father was born. Plans with John's blessings are to create a museum for his father's work.

February 5, 2010

As Director of the Ogunquit Museum of American Art for many years, John helped shape a museum that is well-known today for its collection of American art and art of the Ogunquit art colonies. As the current Director of the Museum, I see evidence of his strong leadership and art skills every day. Because of his contributions, the Museum will continue as a living testament to his skills as an artist, art historian and administrator. Our condolences to his friends, his family, and the OMAA community.
Ron Crusan
Director
Ogunquit Museum of American Art

February 5, 2010

John exemplified every fine trait of the "old school gentleman" and he and his Mary were a most memorable couple..

He had a deep respect for the role Ogunquit played in the history of American art.

After its founder, Henry Strater, died...,John was the cornerstone of the Ogunquit MUseum of American Art during a critical period of its history.

John leaves behind a rich and lasting legacy.

Helen & MIke Horn

Bill Haggerty

February 3, 2010

John and Mary Dirks were my neighbors in Ossining,N.Y.,a town on the Hudson river. On Halloween I would start at their house where the friendly couple would serve cider and donuts.I still cherish a Katzenjammer print Mr. Dirks gave to me in April,1963 when I was 10 years old.With deepest sympathy to his sister Barbara,may he vest en piece py golly!

For Armand

Armand Romeo

February 3, 2010

I met John on the Black Hall Golf Course some years ago. We played and talked during many rounds and each time I was overwhelmed by his talents and accomplishments, not to mention his golf.
When I told him that I grew up reading "Funny Books" and really enjoyed the 'The Katzenjammer Kids', an envelope was delivered to my mail box a few days later and a drawing was in it.

John was one of the really "good guys".
My life is richer for having known John and his beloved wife Mary. Rest in peace my friend.

Mary-Leigh Smart

February 2, 2010

John and I were born the same year and knew each other in Ogunquit from the time we were children. I treasure a fountain of John's I purchased at the Barn Gallery, which is built into a wall of my home. After its hanging on an exterior wall at my Ogunquit home, John loved the idea of its being incorporated in the house itself. My sincere condolences to Barbara. Mary-Leigh Smart

February 2, 2010

John Dirks was a tremendous guiding force for many years at the Ogunquit Museum of American Art. It was my pleasure to serve with him and to know first hand the generosity of he and his wife Mary. We miss them both. Michael Kenslea, President of the Board of Directors OMAA.

February 2, 2010

As a member of the Ogunquit Art Association John exhibited his work at Barn Gallery in Ogunquit for many years. He is fondly remembered,

Nancy R. Davison
President, OAC/Barn

Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results

Make a Donation
in JOHN DIRKS's name

Memorial Events
for JOHN DIRKS

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support JOHN's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor JOHN DIRKS's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more