Vincent "Vince" J. Kirk

Vincent John Kirk, 82, of Carrick in Pittsburgh, PA and most recently having resided in Whitehall, PA, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, veteran, counselor, athlete and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on November 7, 1943, to the late Carl Kirk and Sara Jane Kirk and was the brother of Margie Senchak (Frank), Teresa Jackson, Thomas Kirk (Judy), Kathleen Brofman and Patricia Hoover (Jim) and the late MaryJane Smith and Francis Kirk (Lois).

Vincent was a man who dedicated his life to serving others. Whether through his career, military service, coaching, volunteer work, or simply being there for the people he loved, he made a lasting difference in the lives of countless people.

On April 25, 1973, Vincent married the love of his life, Vivian "Dolly" Lipp. Together, they built a life centered on family, commitment, love, and service. He was the proud father of Bernadette Stewart (Scott) and Teresa Bender (Ron) and a devoted Pap to Connor Stewart, Charleigh Bender, Cameron "C.C." Bender, Karl Stewart and the late Kirk Stewart. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. His family was among his greatest sources of pride and joy.

Vincent proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1968, attained the rank of Corporal E-4 and received an honorable discharge. His military service was an important part of who he was, reflecting the discipline, dedication, and commitment that he carried throughout his life.

His love of sports remained a lifelong passion. It began by playing basketball for St. Basil's and Seton-La Salle and continued during his high school years by playing basketball at Carrick High School (c of '62). He continued his athletic journey at Potomac State Junior College where he played football and baseball from 1962 to 1964. He also played a year of college baseball at California University of Pennsylvania. In 1966, in the Marine Corps, Vincent played football as a quarterback, running back, and defensive back. He was also a point guard and coach in basketball and a captain, 2nd baseman and 3rd baseman in fast pitch softball. A talented hitter, he maintained an impressive batting average of over .400. Influenced by his father, he was a lifelong, year round tennis player as well.

Education was also an important part of Vincent's journey. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts Social Sciences from California University of Pennsylvania in 1970. He later earned a Master of Education in Counselor Education and Community Counseling from Duquesne University, completing his graduate studies in 1987.

Vincent devoted much of his professional life to helping others. He served for 20 years as an Adult Probation Officer for Allegheny County. He also worked as a mental health and clinical professional therapist, a Commission Representative for Human Relations, a group facilitator for domestic abuse, a social worker, an insurance claims adjuster, and a substitute teacher. In every role, he brought compassion, understanding, and a genuine desire to help people.

His commitment to his community extended beyond his professional life. Vincent volunteered with Meals on Wheels and the Free Store. He was also active in politics and with the Allegheny County Court of Professional Employees (ACAPE) for 20 years. He believed in being involved, standing up for others, and giving back to the community he called home.

Vincent will be remembered for the many lives he touched, his love of sports, his strong work ethic, and his unwavering devotion to his family. He was a man who wore many hats throughout his life but the role he cherished most was being a member of his family.

His legacy will live on through Vivian, his daughters, Bernadette and Teresa, his grandchildren and all those fortunate enough to have known and loved him.

Though he is no longer with us, the people he helped, the memories he created, and the love he gave will remain forever.

Semper Fi, Vince. You served your country, your community, and your family with honor. Your greatest legacy is the love you leave behind.

Relatives and friends are welcome on Thursday from 2-4 & 6-8 PM at the Boron Funeral Home Inc. 1719 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, Pa 15210. Funeral Prayers on Friday at 9:45 AM. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Albert the Great Church of Blessed Trinity Parish at 10:30 AM. Interment in Jefferson Memorial Park. Donations can be made to the Parkinson's Foundation.

www.BoronFuneralHome.com