Edward N. Kirkpatrick

Edward N. Kirkpatrick

October 26, 1943 – October 11, 2019

Edward N. Kirkpatrick, age 75, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2019, after a long and courageous battle with peritoneal cancer.  Ed was a lifelong educator, musician, and traveler, and was a 13-year resident of West Grove, Pennsylvania, after having lived in New Jersey and New York.

Ed was born in Philadelphia to M. Louise (Hunt) Kirkpatrick and William Kirkpatrick, Jr., on October 26, 1943.  He was an accomplished and active jazz musician, playing alto and tenor sax at Collingswood High School and at West Chester State College (with the Criterions).  After retiring in 2006, he revived his interest in playing jazz saxophone, performing in church and at community venues.

In his professional life, Ed spent many years as a high school music educator and marching band director, before switching to a career in corporate instruction.  He was active in the church throughout his life, having served as an altar boy in his youth, and continuing his life of service in adulthood as a church vestry and choir member.  He was lifelong fan of both the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles, and enjoyed watching and playing golf.

Ed’s greatest source of pride and joy was his family.  He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Donna; his son, Keith (Colleen); his daughter, Amanda (Jason); and three grandchildren (Jack, Kate, and Delia). He was predeceased by his brother, William E. Kirkpatrick (Linda). 

The Kirkpatrick family will celebrate his life and legacy with a visitation with family and friends at the Episcopal Church of the Advent, 401 N. Union St, Kennett Square, on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at 1:00pm, followed by a funeral service at 2:00pm.  After the funeral service, the family will host a Celebration of Life reception at Hartefeld National Golf Club, 1 Hartefeld Drive, Avondale, PA at 3:30pm. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a memorial donation be made to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.

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