Farrell W. Kirk, Jr.

Farrell W Kirk, Jr., born June 21, 1930, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 13, 2026, at the age of 95, at his residence in Santaquin, Utah. Just six weeks after the passing of his dear wife, Ruth, the two were reunited in what must have been a joyous celebration in Heaven.

Farrell was born to Farrell W Kirk, Sr., and Stella Gertrude (Mannhalter) Kirk in Casper, Wyoming. He was later joined by a sister, Jean. The Kirk family moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, when Farrell was 12 years old.

Farrell became the first Eagle Scout in the Mountain View Ward in Salt Lake City—an honorable accomplishment. This was the first of many major achievements in his life. His dedication in everything he did was a reflection of his character and work ethic.

Farrell met Ruth Zerull at the bakery where they both worked. The moment he saw her, he said, “That’s the girl I’m going to marry,” and he did. In later years, they loved recalling their days “rolling in dough” and how “their love was on the rise.”

With Ruth’s tearful blessing, Farrell served a two-and-a-half-year mission in Finland. Many letters were exchanged during that time—a testament to their deep love for one another. On March 12, 1953, he and Ruth were united in marriage in the Salt Lake Temple. 

Farrell was later drafted into the Korean Conflict. Because of his language skills, he was stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland. Ruth joined him there after the birth of their first son, Keith.

After his military service, Farrell, Ruth, and Keith returned to Salt Lake City. Farrell completed his university studies and was accepted into Loyola Dental School in Chicago. By then, two more sons had joined their family - Rodney and David. Upon his graduation the family returned to Salt Lake City, expecting their fourth son, Rees.

Farrell spent time in private practice before accepting a position at the VA hospital in Tomah, Wisconsin. He was later named Chief of the dental clinic at the VA hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and finally in Roseburg, Oregon. Upon retiring, Farrell and Ruth returned to their original home in Morgan, Utah—the home they had built when their boys were teenagers. That same home later filled with grandchildren each summer, where many fond memories were made.

Farrell was a man of strong faith. He could often be found reading the scriptures at the dining room table or books of historical nature. He loved being outdoors, tending his yard and gardens—often pouring cement somewhere, a long-running joke in the Kirk family. He enjoyed fishing and camping and loved sharing stories of his travels. From Finland to Egypt to Italy and beyond, he often reminisced over a life well lived.

Farrell will be remembered by those who loved him most as a man of deep faith, outstanding character, and a one-of-a-kind sense of humor. His favorite phrases will undoubtedly be passed down to his great grandchildren—a meaningful way to honor and remember him.

Farrell is survived by his sons Rodney (Susan) and David (Debbie), as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one soon-to-be great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruth; his parents; his sister; two sons; and a great-granddaughter.

A funeral service for Farrell will be held at Walker Mortuary in Morgan, Utah at 1:00 PM on February 28th.