Joseph Kirk Jr.

Joseph Kirk, 81, of Manasquan, passed peacefully on February 2, 2025, at home. Joe was born on April 26th, 1943 in Elizabeth, NJ and was raised in Colonia. After graduating Woodbridge High School in 1961 where he played on the golf team, he was drafted into the Army. He served as an army cook in Germany from 1962-1964. Upon his discharge, he married his wife Kathleen and settled in Fords NJ, where they raised three children. Joe worked as a bakery driver and salesman with Local 194 for Hostess Cake for most of his career until his retirement in 2004. Soon after, they happily relocated to Manasquan Beach. It is there they shared many years of special memories with their children and grandchildren. Joe was an avid football fan, and he particularly loved Army and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife Kathy of 56 years, and their three loving children: Susan, Karen and her husband Frank, and Joe and his wife Alison. He was so proud of his seven grandchildren: Ashley and Jenna Tulko, Jack, Ryan, and Sarah Croce, and Joseph and Sabrina Kirk. He is also survived by one sister, Elizabeth Sidler and a brother in law, Robert Sidler, and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Sara and his beloved pets: Duke, Kaycee, and Jack.

Joe will be remembered for his sense of humor and deep love for his family. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. Services will be private, but memorial contributions can be made in his honor to St. Jude online at stjude.org.or by mail at: 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

Services are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ.