Kirk Lewis Walquist

Kirk Lewis Walquist passed away on December 28, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of profound love, unwavering devotion, and kindness that touched everyone who knew him. His passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to experience his warm and genuine spirit.
At the center of Kirk's life was the once-in-a-lifetime love he shared with his wife, Kathie Walquist. They met fifteen years ago and fell in love immediately-the kind of love that is undeniable, deep, and eternal. From that moment on, they were inseparable and deeply in love every single day. Kirk was Kathie's rock in every sense of the word. Through two cancer treatments, he stood by her side with unmatched strength, patience, and devotion, giving her strength and a reason to keep fighting. His love for her was fierce, selfless, and unconditional-a love that meant everything to them.
Kirk was an extraordinary father to his daughters, Jennifer and Michelle LeBrun, whom he cherished as if they were his own. He would have done anything for them and showed his love not just through words, but through actions-always making sure their tires had air or dropping off care packages during hard times. He gave the best hugs at exactly the moments they were needed. Kirk set a high bar for what a true man should be for anyone who enters their lives.
Kirk and Kathie shared two dogs, Kallie and Kacie, whom Kirk absolutely loved. A lifelong Chicago Blackhawks fan, Kirk attended many games beginning at the age of four and knew every player, statistic, and goal by heart. He loved riding his Harley with Kathie and his friends, including trips down the Tail of the Dragon and to Sturgis. Kirk cherished his friendships, both old and new, and would do anything for the people he cared about. He never took anyone for granted and made a point to stay connected with friends across years and distance. Kirk loved seeing his favorite band, Shinedown, in concert with his wife. They saw them sixteen times, with a seventeenth planned for their sixteenth wedding anniversary next year. Kirk held a special place in his heart for Hawaii. He loved to track the volcano eruptions and visited Hawaii at least fifteen times, one of which was when he and Kathie got married. He loved grilling for his family, especially his famous ribs and giant hamburgers. He also treasured time spent in their flower garden tracking and watching hummingbirds with Kathie and the dogs. Kirk enjoyed taking Kallie for several walks daily and found so much joy in watching Kallie and Kacie destroy the toys from their Chewy box the moment it was opened.
Above all, Kirk was one of the kindest and most genuine humans anyone could ever meet. Everyone who encountered him felt his warmth immediately. He had a gift for making people feel seen, comfortable, and truly cared for, whether he had known them for years or had just met them moments before. He left an imprint on every heart he touched.
Kirk is survived by his beloved wife, Kathie Walquist, and his daughters, Jennifer and Michelle LeBrun.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Caren Gay (Brust); his grandmother, Grace Brust; and his brother, Eric Walquist, all of whom he loved deeply.
He is also survived by his niece, Melissa Walquist, and her mother, Michelle Walquist, and by his father, William Walquist and his sister, Deidre Darabas.
Though his time here was far too short, Kirk Lewis Walquist's unmatched love, strength, and kindness will live on forever through the countless lives he touched. He was truly one of a kind-an irreplaceable presence whose impact cannot be measured or replicated. Our lives are forever changed because he was in them. He will be deeply missed, endlessly loved, and never forgotten.
"We plan on having a Celebration of Life for Kirk Walquist on July 11, 2026. Details to come via Facebook"
For more information, please call Justen Funeral Home at 815-385-2400 or visit www.justenfh.com, where friends and loved ones can share memories of Kirk on his memorial wall.