Samuel “Sam” Mack Kirk

Samuel “Sam” Mack Kirk
Samuel “Sam” Mack Kirk

Samuel “Sam” Mack Kirk, 78, of Hereford, Texas passed away August 17, 2020.

Sam was born August 13, 1942 in Sherman, Texas to George P “Pierce”, and Fern (Brune) Kirk. The family moved to Pilot Point, Texas shortly after his birth before settling down in Dimmitt, Texas during his elementary school years. Sam attended Dimmitt High School and was a proud graduate of the class of 1961. He then attended North Texas State in Denton, Texas following his graduation from Dimmitt. After a few years, Sam returned to Dimmitt to help his father build homes before starting work at Dimmitt Ammonia Plant in 1968. Sam married the love of his life, Marilyn Loretta Stewart on August 23, 1968. Sam found work on a ranch following their marriage and then became a cowboy at Prairie Cattle Co. in Tulia, Texas in 1970. He always had a passion for agriculture and the cattle industry. He eventually worked his way up to management at Prairie Cattle Company, and eight years later moved his family to Hereford, planted roots, and became co-owner of Tri State Cattle Feeders until 2007. Sam then became a Sales Manager for Global Animal Products and worked there until his retirement in 2018. Sam truly loved his job and was dedicated to his clients and co-workers. He loved travelling to meet with clients and built long-lasting relationships along the way.

Sam was an honest and loyal friend. His friends describe him as a “great storyteller” and always there when he was needed. Sam enjoyed “pickin-and-grinnin” on the patio with friends, reading books, studying history, working border collies, grilling at local events and fundraisers, and participating in cutting horse events. Sam’s grandchildren were the lights of his life, and Sam was invincible in their eyes. Sam enjoyed cheering his grandchildren on at any sporting event, he never missed a game and was well known by all the players.  You could also find Sam on the beautiful streams of New Mexico with a fly-fishing rod in hand. He was an avid outdoorsman and had a passion for rustic living and campfire cooking. Sam found a second home in the Church of Christ. He knew the scripture and studied his bible throughout each day. Sam enjoyed watching old western shows in his comfy chair with a good glass of whiskey nearby. Sam was one of a kind, he had a heart of gold and he can never be replaced. Sam was his girls’ biggest provider and protector throughout his entire life. Sam Kirk made the world a better more wholesome place.

Sam is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and his son-in-law, Ronny Collier.

Sam is survived by his wife, Marilyn Kirk; 3 children, Toni Sturgess of Dimmitt, Texas, Bill Kirk of Austin, Texas, and Lori Collier of Hereford, Texas; 10 grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Tim. 4:7

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to an account set up for Sam’s grandchildren that is set up at Hereford Credit Union.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

14 Replies to “Samuel “Sam” Mack Kirk”

  1. It was my honor to have Sam as a friend and classmate.
    I will cherish his memory and friendship.
    God Speed Sam!!!

  2. Sam was my classmate. He was always the immaculately dressed, quiet cowboy. My heartfelt sympathy to his family.

  3. Sam was one of my best friends in high school. We always enjoyed catching up with each other at class reunions. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren. Sam Kirk was a good man!!

  4. Sam was a genuinely kind person. I remember how his gentle spirit and friendly smile quietly filled the room with warmth and made the world a happier place. On behalf of the James Family, my love and prayers are with you all.

  5. Sam was such a kind man. I thought of him as a “Gentle Giant.” He seemed to light up the room when he walked in and made everyone feel special. He had a smile and a hug for everyone. He was very hospitable. I did not know him before he became a Christian, but his life became very centered around studying the Bible and being a servant any time, any way and anywhere he went. He will be missed so much! He was a special man and a true friend to both me and my husband, Denny.

  6. Sam was a true friend at times most would not of helped. I have cried my eyes out since learning of his passing Rest easy Sam and know I will always cherish our talks, your advice, our BS and most of all your friendship over the past 25 years or so. You are already missed.
    My sincere deepest condolences and prayers for the family.

  7. As a classmate in Dimmitt, Sammy was always the boy that turned the girls heads… He was a good guy then and I am sure he will be missed by many…

  8. I got to know Sam while I worked as an outside teller for HEREFORD STATE BANK. He was always such a joy to wait on and pleasant and made me smile even when I wasn’t in a real good mood. He even brought me the book – Lonesome Dove to read one afternoon because earlier that morning I told him I was bored. I still have that Larry McMurtry book he gave me. Sending my prayers to Bill and Lori whom I went to school with .. you had a sweet dad….! And to your families..he will be missed I am sure…

  9. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Sam was an incredible man and we looked forward to seeing him at all the GAP events. He will be truly missed.

  10. I’m so sorry to hear of Sams passing. He was a great person and he made a impression on my life with his kindness and humor. Lori I know he loved you so as I’m sure he did all his children and grandchildren. I met Sam through Gary Kreigshauser they were a pair. Love and prayers for you all.

  11. We Banners enjoyed Sam’s afternoon and weekend visits to the barn on Hickory for ‘happy hour’ and to listen or watch games of many kinds on TV along with aN occasional prayer for someone in need along with a cold drink and snacks. Mark misses, since March, their scenic drives and favorite roadside cafes and restaurants. May Sam and his family find peace in their beloved Savior’s Presence.

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