Birk Griffiths

Birk Griffiths, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on March 25, 2025, in Overland Park, Kansas, surrounded by the warmth of his family. Born on September 8, 1947, in Holton, Kansas, Birk lived a life rich with experiences, passions, and connections that left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

From a young age, Birk exhibited an unquenchable thirst for life, graduating from Lecompton High School in 1965 before answering the call of duty to serve his country. His time in the U.S. Army as a tank mechanic during the late 1960s shaped him deeply, instilling values of discipline and camaraderie that he carried throughout his life. Honorably discharged in 1968, he ventured back into civilian life, but the spirit of service never left him.

For over two decades, Birk served as a maintenance security officer at KNEA, contributing to the safety and well-being of his community. He brought that same commitment to the parks department, where he spent many years ensuring that nature's beauty was preserved for others to enjoy. Yet beyond the bounds of work, Birk was a jokester, always bringing laughter into the lives of those around him, his playful nature a testament to his love for life and connection with others.

Family was paramount for Birk. He married Theresa Burghart on January 30, 1982. She preceded him in death on August 29, 2001. He later married, Jackie Griffiths, on November 9, 2002, in Branson, Missouri, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, adventures, and shared joy. Birk was an ardent supporter of his children, Michaela and his late daughter Tammy, as well as his sons George and Tony. His grandchildren—Braxton, Hallie, Taylor, Dillon, Stasia, Joel, Alaina, Alyson and Cody -- were the light of his life, bringing countless smiles and memories. Birk’s love extended further to his eight great-grandchildren, who were cherished beyond words. He leaves behind his siblings, Dona, Danny, and Dana.

An ardent car enthusiast and gearhead, Birk found joy on the racetrack, embodying a spirit of competition and thrill that matched his vibrant personality. He loved riding his Harley Davidson and was a founding member of MidWest Brotherhood MC, retiring in 2021. He embraced nature as a great hunter and passionate fisherman, spending countless hours outdoors, reveling in the serene company of his beloved dogs, Smokey and Bandit. Birk also had a knack for finding deals online, showcasing his savvy love for buying, selling, and trading in the digital marketplace.

Birk's life journey, although filled with achievements and passions, was woven with threads of profound loss. He is preceded in death by his parents, William H. and Lucille (Baxter) Griffiths, as well as his siblings Judy, Lu, and Gede Frost, and son and daughter Tony and Tammy Vardys, each loss carving a place in his heart.

As we gather to honor Birk's remarkable life, a visitation will be held on April 4, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service commencing at 2:00 PM, both taking place at Parker-Price & Davidson in Topeka, Kansas. A graveside service will follow at Valencia Cemetery, offering friends and family a final resting place to reflect and celebrate the vibrant spirit of a man who was unforgettable.

In the heart of every family member and friend, Birk Griffiths will forever remain a beacon of love, laughter, and resilience—a true treasure whose legacy will illuminate our lives for years to come.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Birk Griffiths Memorial Fund, via Silver Lake Bank. 

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