- Date Of Birth: May 7, 1928
- Date Of Death: December 22, 2017
- State: Illinois
Joseph “Mike” Kirkham, 89, of Jacksonville, died Friday, Dec. 22, 2017, at Heritage Health Therapy and Senior Care.
He was born May 7, 1928, in Forrest, IL, the son of Leo and Leora Berry Kirkham. He married Marjorie J. Merriman on Dec. 23, 1950, in Springfield, and she preceded him in death on Feb. 18, 2016.
He is survived by one son, Michael (Diane) Kirkham of Springfield; one granddaughter, Stephanie (Luke) Soderstrom of Holland, MI; one great grandson, Edward Soderstrom; one brother, Gene (Linda) Kirkham of Arcola; one sister, Carol Howard of Jacksonville; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by four brothers, Neil, Tom, John, and Wesley Kirkham.
Mr. Kirkham began his career working on the construction of railroads. He then joined the U.S. Navy, serving with the Seabees. Upon his discharge, he returned to Jacksonville and began his career in the building trades. After retirement, he volunteered his time and experience on many local landmark building projects. Mike was a life member of both the VFW and B.A.C. Local #8.
