Daniel Thomas Kirk

Daniel Thomas Kirk passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025, with his devoted wife of 47 years, Francine Kirk, by his side. Born on April 6, 1955, in Charleston, West Virginia, Dan was a steadfast presence in the lives of his family and community-a man of deep faith, unwavering love, and boundless generosity.
Dan graduated from Chattanooga Central High School in 1973 and pursued a degree in engineering at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. His passion for his work led to an impressive 47-year career at the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Outside of his professional life, Dan's remarkable talents and hobbies were a reflection of his character. An engineer and a true Renaissance man, he loved caring for his lawn, restoring cars, building and fixing anything in need of repair, and making his home a place of warmth and love.
Dan's faith in God was the cornerstone of his life, guiding him through every trial and triumph. He shared this faith with his family, leaving a legacy of trust and hope in God's promises. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he was unwavering in his love and dedication. He is survived by his beloved wife, Francine; his daughters, Natalie Kirk (Todd Schlosser) and Jessica Bender (Cody Bender); his cherished grandchildren, Scarlet, Violet, Milo, and Oliver Bender; his mother, Inez Kirk; and his sister, Deanna Kirk. He is preceded in death by his father, Thomas Franklin Kirk.
Dan's love story with Francine is one for the ages. They first met while he was performing with his band, Tumbleweed, at The Station House at The Chattanooga Choo Choo. His music was what brought them together, and their connection became the melody that carried them through a lifetime of love, joy, and devotion.
Before ALS stole his voice, Dan was a gifted singer and guitarist, sharing his love for music with all who knew him. His songs were the soundtrack to his daughters' childhoods, and his performances-especially his pitch-perfect renditions of Billy Joel's "Piano Man" and Don McLean's "American Pie"-will forever be treasured memories. He found joy in music, humor, and storytelling, earning the title of "king of dad jokes" and becoming his family's encyclopedia of wisdom before the internet was a thing.
Dan will be remembered as a man of steadfast faith, purpose, and love. His life was marked by his devotion to Jesus, his family, and the countless people he helped with his servant's heart. Whether singing and playing guitar, sharing his love of History, Star Trek and Snoopy, or indulging in Francine's delicious cooking, Dan's joy was contagious. He inspired those around him with his steadfast spirit, his humor, and his unconditional love.
While he will be deeply missed, we find peace knowing that Dan is now in the presence of his Heavenly Father, free from pain and suffering. We look forward to the day we will hear him sing and play guitar again. Dan, when we see you again, our first request will be "Brown Eyed Girl."
A life celebration service for Daniel Thomas Kirk will be held at Williamson and Sons Funeral home in Soddy Daisy TN on Saturday January 18th. Visitation will begin at 10am followed by a service at 12pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to organizations supporting ALS research.
Rest in glory, Captain Kirk. You are loved beyond measure.
Condolences and memories can be shared at www.williamsonandsons.com.
Arrangements are by Williamson and Sons Funeral Home, 8852 Dayton Pike, Soddy Daisy, TN 37379.
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