Max Van Kirk

   Max Van Kirk, age 86 of Iowa City, IA, formerly of Lake View, IA, passed away on October 11, 2019, at Atrium Village in Hills, IA. The son of Howard and Della (Palmer) Van Kirk, Max Edwin Van Kirk was born on November 16, 1932, in Martelle, IA. Max and his siblings were raised in eastern Iowa on dairy farms where they all worked once old enough. The family moved to Iowa City when Max’s father Howard became employed at the Veteran’s Hospital there. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church. Max graduated with University of Iowa High School’s Class of 1952. After graduation, he attended a year of community college and worked for Steward’s Shoe Store in Iowa City.

   In January of 1954, Max met the love of his life, Martha Buse, through a cousin of Martha’s. On August 14, 1954, in Hiawatha, KS, the two were married by a friend who happened to be a judge. This union was blessed with three sons: Mark, Matt and Mike.

   Max worked for the University of Iowa’s Athletic Department in Facility Maintenance for 27 years. After he and Martha retired, they enjoyed a second career in the RV industry. They held several jobs including working for the Family Motor Coach Association. Camping was always a favorite pastime for Max and his family. Their love of camping started in the 1950’s when they were owners of a small tow behind trailer. Of course over the years the trailer grew and they eventually ended up owners of a large RV.  Max and Martha enjoyed trips to Alaska, Canada, Mexico and all of the lower 48 states.

   Max loved people and was a conversational man. He also enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs play as well as watching football. He was involved with Boy Scouts for 22 years of which he was very proud of. Max will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

   Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 65 years, Martha Van Kirk of Iowa City, IA; sons: Mark (Cynthia) Van Kirk of Silver Spring, MD, Matt Van Kirk and Mike Van Kirk both of Iowa City, IA; granddaughter Charmaine Van Kirk of Galesburg, IL; brother Bill Van Kirk of Marshalltown, IA; many extended family members and friends.

   Max was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Della Van Kirk; a brother, sister and a sister-in-law.